Connections are not always Human

My name is Marina and I am from Argentina. I moved to Dubai in 2011 and secured a role as cabin crew – I worked with some incredible people and had a chance to travel the world.

For my 30^th birthday, I was gifted a pet puppy of Maltese breed, named Lupita. Since I got her, I became so attached to her – taking her for exercise even when I was tired and not in the mood – this got me fitter and healthier. It is so easy to become inactive living away from home and it a hot country, you rely on comfort food too – but she was a huge factor in my lifestyle change.

Having her also inspired me to volunteer at an animal rescue for abandoned animals and I even rescued a cat who was unwell and injured in the street whom I took to a shelter for refuge. Having a pet overall really improved my life. I even began eating healthier, I also gave up meat as a result. Living abroad, you become isolated from family and it is something we all miss in this part of the world – especially when you are 14,000 Km away from home like me. But for me, I was able to develop this bond with her.

6 years before I got Lupita, I posted on Facebook, about the same breed. Then when I finally got her years later, the post popped up on my memories – it was like I had manifested her!

In 2020 during covid – I lost my job. I felt completely lost and isolated. When you are alone it can be super tough. Lockdown, no family or friends. But my pet dog was something that kept me going. The motivation helped me secure a new role in a new industry where I have grown my career.

For most people, they can be inspired and motivated by members of their family, friends or peers – which I totally understand. But it doesn’t need to be a human connection. For me, it was my love for this little animal. Motivation comes in different forms. Do not restrict yourself. Find something you can connect with and allow it to be your driving force for better things to come. Be it human or not!