What is our true nature?

Chris J and Stan both touch on this point in Barking Balloon Dog,  and I have spent the last month or so thinking about my true nature and what that means.   Are Barking Balloon Dog and I typical of the Jack Russell Terrier nature?  Is this who and what we are?  Or is it learned?  These are questions that Thomas Merton, who was a Trappist Monk, wrote about and debated much better than I can.  

While I was reflecting on what exactly is our true nature this you tube clip came my way.  It made me wonder whether this lion is showing a universal aspect of the true nature shared by all living creatures. It made my Minder cry.  

Perhaps for some Witney is a bit cheesy, the film quality is grainy, and the commentary has a couple of minor mistakes in it; but the essential message is forever - not just for Christmas.