They Do come to us, as they are searching us out..
May it be from magazines, dreams, newspapers, books, meditations, or in your own neighborhood. Each of us even though we don't know it has a connection with the animals of this Realm and the other Realms. May it be they are alive or dead.
They are the ones to seek us out so they can also finish their journey, or quest, or lessons. They are the ones to choose us.
Spirit Animals and Live Animals do this very thing day in and day out. They are our companions, through thick and thin..
They walk with us in life and in Spirit. They help us cope with life, they help us love in life, and when the tough gets goin'.
They are there to stand by and wait for us to figure out what needs to be done. They give us their Love unconditionaly. In Spirit, they are at our sides, helping us, Protecting us and using the common sense that was giving to them. Sharing their wisdom with us even though we might not see it, or hear it, they are there.
They can help you in many areas of you life whether they are of the physical or astral plane. They can help focus and raise the energy of a ritual or magickal circle.
They can protect you in your dreams, meditations and quests, as well as in the real world. They can teach you how to take on their abilities through shapeshifting. They can help you learn to take yourself less seriously (or more so if needed).
A guide can be your friend, confidant, sister, brother, teacher. They can be playful, loving, protective and supportive. They will change and grow with you throughout your life.
You work with spirit guides the same way you work with anyone else, ask them for help, advice, or support, whatever you need. They will decide if they will do what you ask. If it is for the best they will almost always help.
To talk with a guide, do a visualization in which you call to them. They will come if they choose. If they do not, try again later or try to work out the problem on your own.
If your guide is a physical one just talk with it. Talk with your guide. Ask it to teach you. Get to know your guide as you would get to know any close friend. Spend time with it.
You will learn how to work with it as you get to know each other, as you learn to become a team and understand each others needs. Just remember to always, always, treat your guide with respect and gratitude for the help it gives.