Mouse in the House, Part 3: Spiritual Lessons from a Tiny Teacher
Introduction:
In this part, I share the powerful wisdom I gained from my teacher Diana Willoughby, may she rest in peace. Diana was an integral part of my spiritual path, particularly in helping me understand and revere the presence of our other-than-human beings as sovereign entities with their own destinies, paths, and experiences that have nothing to do with us human beings. Have you ever encountered a spiritual guide whose presence shaped your path in ways you never imagined? And yet, these beings, in their independence, are reflections to help us remember who we are. How do you perceive the relationship between humans and the other-than-human beings that share this world with us?
I also offer my own terms and insights, shaped by the teachings I received from Diana as well as my personal experiences, including but not limited to my encounters with Mouse. What lessons have you learned from those who have come before you, and how do they continue to influence your journey today? If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to read Parts 1 and 2 of this series, as they offer deeper context to my perspective on animal spirit guides and the messages they bring.
Diana’s legacy lives strong within me, nurtured alongside what I learn through my practice of Ifa and Orisa priestesshood. What role does curiosity play in your spiritual path, and how does it lead to greater connection with your guides and the Earth? Through this, I continue to deepen my reverence for this beautiful Earth and the blessing of Life itself.
Key/Medicine terms for this Animal Guide from Diana:
Stealth
Agility
Adaptability
Boldness
Herbalism
Using Surroundings as Protection
Attention to Detail
Gift of Communication
Sensing the Way
Making Use of Available Resources
A few additional words based on my experience:
Trusting Life • Courage • Watchfulness • Creativity • Determination
Not Seeing Size as a Hinderance • Doing Something Different
Overall Message from this Big Little Being We Call Mouse:
If you’ve been putting off anything because you think you aren’t _______ enough, stop it right now. Whatever description your mind—or another person—has thrown at you about who you are has no bearing on who you actually are. Think about how tiny Mouse is compared to almost everything else around it, yet it is still incredibly bold and determined. It goes for it, often making a run for it when necessary. If there are skills or other things required to do what you desire, then make them part of your excitement.
Additionally, don’t overlook the people, places, things, relationships, or any other experiences that are—or are perceived or described as—“small” or insignificant. First, nothing is insignificant in the eyes of The All That Is, Olodumare, the Universe, or whatever term, name, or description we give to the energy, essence, being, or concept we see as beyond—or “bigger” than—us.
While everything may not be relevant to us at all times or at a specific moment, it is still worthy and necessary. It is also the combination of the “little” things that creates the “big” things. Be with, appreciate, and learn through (and from) them. Tackling or navigating the small will not only give you the fortitude and experience to deal with the big—but perhaps also show you that the big things aren’t so big after all. What small things have you overlooked lately that may be holding a key to something greater?
Closing Reflections & Invitations
Thank you for journeying with me through this three-part story of Mouse—one small being with a massive message. Consider the following questions as you reflect on this creature, my reflections, or any other parallel (even if seemingly unrelated) visitation or experience that is showing up in your life at this time:
What small things in your life might be carrying big medicine?
Are there patterns, animals, signs, or encounters you’ve dismissed because they seemed too ordinary to matter?
What messages might be waiting for you in the margins, the quiet spaces, the overlooked moments?
These are the kinds of questions I love to explore with clients and communities—especially with those who lead, create, heal, and serve.
If you’re a healer, artist, leader, or visionary (or an organization that supports them) and want to dive deeper into the sacred wisdom encoded in your everyday experiences, let’s connect. You can reach out through my Contact page or explore current offerings in my Marketplace.
And if this story stirred something in you, I invite you to explore the Animal Spirit Guides Library inside Simply Spiritual, my on-demand teaching platform. Mouse is just one of over 80 beings included—each entry offering visual art, energetic messages, and spiritual insight designed to help you reawaken your connection with the natural world—and yourself.
This work is a prayer, a practice, and an invitation.
May it support your path with clarity, presence, and trust.
© 2020 ONYI LOVE ® LLC & Felicia Richards [Updated 2025]