The sun was just starting to peek through the clouds when we woke up on that Bank Holiday Monday morning. There was a hint of warmth in the air, and the weather app promised a day good enough for an adventure. Excitement quickly set in, so we wasted no time packing up the car and setting off to Chester Zoo for a family day out.
As we arrived at the zoo, we could all feel the thrill of anticipation. My wife, son, and I had been there before, but this was my daughter’s first visit, and her enthusiasm was infectious. Everything was new to her, and it showed in her wide eyes and eager smile. To be honest, I felt a bit like her. This was my first time visiting Chester Zoo without any alcohol in my system, or without planning to sneak a few drinks during our picnic. The experience was already different, and I was curious to see how the day would unfold.
As we wandered through the zoo, visiting the various enclosures, I noticed something remarkable. My inner state was completely different from what I had expected—and vastly different from past visits. Instead of rushing through each exhibit, I found myself slowing down, soaking in the sights and sounds, and genuinely appreciating each moment. I was even taking more time than the rest of my family to observe the animals and read the informational plaques. Every enclosure became an opportunity to pause, reflect, and fully enjoy the experience.
This new approach made me realise the true benefit of patience and mindfulness. By being more relaxed and fully present, I wasn’t just seeing more of the animals; I was truly noticing them. In the past, I would have taken a quick glance into what seemed like an empty enclosure, muttering, “There’s nothing bloody in there, waste of money,” before hurriedly moving on to the next disappointment. My goal had always been to rush through the zoo so we could sit down and eat—and more importantly, drink.
But this time, I tried something different. I practiced a form of meditation that I’d read about but never attempted for an extended period: walking meditation. By counting my breaths and synchronizing them with my steps, my experience at the zoo transformed. In the past, as the zoo got busier and people began pushing and shoving for the best views, I would have quickly become irritated, my inner anger simmering until it ruined the day. But with this new practice, I felt completely at ease. There was no rush to claim the perfect spot, just a deep-seated belief that I would get where I needed to be when the time was right. And, remarkably, that’s exactly what happened. More often than not, a space would open up just as I arrived, offering a perfect view. It felt as if the animals knew and chose that moment to reveal themselves.
Reflecting on the day, I realise that my entire world has shifted. Everything and everyone around me seems better, happier. Places and situations that once caused me stress now feel much easier to navigate. And the most surprising part? The only thing that has changed is me. I no longer feel the need to control every aspect of my experience, to demand perfection simply because I paid for it. I’ve let go of the anger and frustration that used to arise when things didn’t go my way, and, most importantly, I’ve stopped drinking. This new perspective has made all the difference, turning a simple trip to the zoo into a profound lesson in mindfulness and contentment.
Animal Education
The sun, a timid orb, peeked through misty veils,
A Bank Holiday promise, a day to unveil.
With hearts aflame, we packed and set off,
To Chester Zoo, a wondrous, magical spot.
My daughter’s eyes, wide with delight,
A first-time visitor, a magical sight.
A sobering change, a different me,
No hidden flasks, no alcohol spree.
We wandered and explored, a peaceful pace,
Observing creatures in their natural space.
No more rushing, no more haste,
Just savouring moments, a mindful taste.
Patience and mindfulness, a newfound art,
A transformation of my mind and heart.
No more anger, no more frustration,
Just peace and contentment, a sweet sensation.
Walking meditation, a calming guide,
Breathing and counting, as I stride.
No more pushing, no more strife,
Just harmony and a peaceful life.
A world transformed, a newfound grace,
Happiness and joy, a radiant face.
A simple zoo trip, a profound lesson,
Mindfulness and contentment, a life-changing blessing.
