The unique wonder of each of my dogs is that they have individually been tasked with teaching me (human) something different about who I was; and who I was meant to become.
My first dog, Lassie, a collie of course, came to me in the innocence and wonder of a young child–she was loved unconditionally because as a child of loving parents, I knew no different.
Lady, my English setter was the lover of nature, and showed me the beauty of running through fields, jumping in leaves, racing just to run, and the quietness of the mossy forest. She helped me to discover my own love of the environment as we often walked through dappled sunshine breaking through treetops to expose the most gorgeous trilliums growing all around us.
Dixie, I believe she tried to teach me patience, but as a young mother and wife, I just wasn’t ready to sit, stay and learn the lessons she was sent to teach me–Dixie I’m sorry I failed you.
Daisy was with us only a short time, but she exposed me to life with a Miniature Pinscher for the first time and brought love, playfulness and the knowledge that life sometimes ends to quickly causing us to catch our breathe and realize if only for a few moments the gift of genuinely living each day to the fullest.
Phoebe was able to bring unbridled joy to our growing family. Nothing like a small pony in the house to cause total chaos and laughter!
Martini (no we didn’t name her) showed me what happens to the spirit as a result of being subjected to the cruel conditions of puppy mills. Years later, I was rewarded with one of the most beautiful sights I personally would ever witness in a dog. She was the one to finally teach me the meaning of patience, I believe I gave her the gift of courage in return. After almost two years of living exclusively under our bed, coming out only to run out the door and do her business, she braved the world and dared to overcome her fears, living the rest of her life in the light of day.
LuLu is still at the age of 19 the dog that has taught me what undying dedication, devotion and love of life truly mean. She brings endless joy, laughter and kisses galore on a daily basis, even though she now sleeps quite a bit.
MaeMae, a second Miniature Pinscher who was torn too soon from her puppies and dropped at a shelter taught me over 17 years, that love can overcome loneliness and depression. She truly was my doggie soulmate who is missed everyday.
Lady (number 2), a Miniature Pinscher and Chihuahua mix showed me first hand the cruel side of humanity while I was living halfway around the world–she balanced it with a joyous gratitude to just be alive, and loves nothing more than to be in the laps of those she trusts.
Romeo, my only boy in a world of girls continues to teach me on a daily basis that its ok to slow down, to sit on a sidewalk and watch for awhile, to play, to dance, to cry, to laugh at childlike antics, to always persevere and never give up even on the worst of days. His most important lesson so far, we really should take more time to gaze into each other’s eyes (dogs and humans). For in doing so, we really can discover the depth and beauty of life, reflect on our own journey and bring joy to each other’s souls.
Isabella (our newest Miniature Pinscher mix) hasn’t revealed her lessons yet, but I look forward to them and hope I learn what she was sent to teach me.
Spend some time with your dog, they’re here for a reason. Discover the gift they have been sent to teach you, both you and humanity will be better for it.