How to Pet a Porcupine

I discovered something new in a staff meeting a few weeks ago, and that is that you can pet a porcupine without getting hurt. I have never actually pet a porcupine, but I was told it is possible without a follow-up trip the hospital, if you do it correctly.

Porcupine

Photo courtesy of © flickr.com/photos/arthur_chapman/3986448936/

If you want to pet a porcupine without getting stuck by a bunch of quills you don’t run up and startle it.  You don’t quickly scoop it up into your hands and give it a big hug.  If you want to pet a porcupine you have to develop trust with it.  First, you hold out your hand to see if it wants to come near and sniff you. Only after it sniffs you can you pet it, but you have to do it a certain way starting at the head and petting down.  To pet a porcupine any other way could potentially hurt…a lot.

Some people are a lot like porcupines. They have quills, and they will stick you if you handle them the wrong way.    You know the kind of people I am talking about, they tend to be a bit grouchy, pessimistic, standoffish and avoid personal contact, have a tendency to complain and point out the bad in a situation, etc…  These people tend to be a lot like porcupines.  If you run up and startle them you’re going to get hurt.  If you try to pressure them into doing something you’re going to get hurt.  If you cross their path in a way they don’t like, start looking for the nearest hospital.

To pet one of these porcupines requires developing trust just like a real porcupine. No, holding out your hand to see if they sniff you is probably not the best way to go about it, but spending time getting to know them is.  Learning about their perspective, their past, their priorities can give you insight in how best to go about working and getting along with them.  Taking the time to building trust with can go a very long way, and save you a lot of pain in the end.  Just as I am sure petting a real porcupine is an amazing experience, I know that getting someone who is a bit prickly on your side can be just as fulfilling.

Also, for those who are pastors of churches and have opportunity to work with porcupines, the reality is that they are also sheep in need of a good shepherd. They can’t simply be dismissed. You can’t just steer clear of them like you might a real porcupine in the wild. You have to learn to pet them.  You have to learn to lead them. So you might as well do it the right way, and save yourself some pain.

Posted on
Category: Leadership

Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.

Leave a Reply to 1win_zbMi Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

198,924 thoughts on “How to Pet a Porcupine”

  30. After going over a handful of the blog posts on your web site, I honestly like
    your way of blogging. I saved it to my bookmark website list
    and will be checking back in the near future. Take a look at my website as well and let me know how you feel.

    Reply

  35. Lowe’s Return Policy is designed to be straightforward, convenient, and customer-friendly.

    With Lowe’s “Returns Made Easy” approach, you can shop confidently, knowing
    that we’re here to assist you if you need to return or exchange a
    product

    Reply

  40. For those who value their time and comfort, privatjet mieten preise becoming an increasingly popular travel option.
    The demand for private jet rental services is on the rise due to the growing need for flexibility and luxury . The benefits of private jet rental are numerous, ranging from reduced travel time to increased productivity Private jets can fly directly to destinations that are not served by commercial airlines, saving time and effort . Furthermore, private jet rental companies offer a wide range of aircraft to choose from, catering to different needs and budgets The choice of aircraft depends on the number of passengers, the distance to be traveled, and the level of luxury desired .

    Moreover, private jet rental companies often offer discounts and promotions, making it more accessible to a wider range of people. The process of renting a private jet is relatively straightforward, with many companies offering online booking platforms and personalized customer service You can search for available aircraft, compare prices, and book your flight online, or you can contact a private jet rental company directly for a tailored quote .

    **Section 2: Benefits of Private Jet Rental**
    Renting a private jet offers a level of flexibility and convenience that is unmatched by commercial airlines . The benefits of private jet rental extend beyond just flexibility, as they also offer a high level of comfort and luxury You can also customize your flight experience to suit your needs, from the type of cuisine to the in-flight entertainment . Furthermore, private jet rental companies often provide additional services, such as concierge and travel planning You can also rely on the rental company to handle any unexpected issues or changes, giving you peace of mind.

    Moreover, private jets can be used for special occasions, such as weddings or anniversaries, adding a touch of luxury and glamour to the event. The cost of private jet rental may seem prohibitive, but it can be a worthwhile investment for businesses or individuals who value their time and productivity You can also use the time on board to work, relax, or entertain, making the most of your travel time .

    **Section 3: Types of Private Jets**
    There are many types of private jets to choose from, ranging from small propeller planes to large business jets . The choice of aircraft depends on the number of passengers, the distance to be traveled, and the level of luxury desired Mid-size jets, such as the Hawker 900, offer a balance of comfort and affordability, making them popular for business trips and family vacations . Furthermore, private jet rental companies often offer customized aircraft, tailored to specific needs and preferences You can choose from a range of interior designs, from sleek and modern to luxurious and traditional .

    Mid-size jets, such as the Challenger 300, offer a longer range and more comfort, making them popular for transcontinental flights . The technology and innovation in private jets are constantly evolving, with new aircraft and features being introduced all the time You can expect a high level of safety and reliability, with regular maintenance and inspections ensuring that the aircraft is airworthy .

    **Section 4: Conclusion and Future Outlook**
    In conclusion, renting a private jet is a great way to experience the luxury and flexibility of private air travel, without the need for ownership . The future of private jet rental looks bright, with increasing demand and advancements in technology The rise of electric and hybrid propulsion systems is expected to reduce emissions and operating costs, making private jets more accessible and environmentally friendly .

    With flexible pricing options and customized solutions, private jet rental companies are catering to different needs and budgets . As the private jet rental industry continues to evolve and grow, we can expect to see new innovations and advancements in the future From sustainable fuels to advanced materials, the technology and innovation in private jets will continue to improve, reducing emissions and operating costs .

    Reply