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| Loki running by the river |
A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you
more than you love yourself. Josh Billings
When I was a child we had
a dog, a mongrel called Scamp. I loved him to bits. Animals are wonderful
companions. They teach us some many things simply by ‘being’. I learnt about
listening and unconditional love, about vulnerability and the need for constant
care which has a reward like none other. Animals teach us something nothing
else in the world can.
They can teach us how to
live in the present moment. Stroking Scamp I forgot about everything else. All
that mattered was that moment, there was no need for words it was enough to be
together. Most pets enjoy playing – although I’m not sure about stick insects
or lizards! You get the general idea though.
Where we live now out in
the countryside I love watching the wildlife throughout the year. At this time
of year I see young hares playing around the margins of the field, simply for
the fun of it. Birds call and in the evenings I can watch the murmation of a
flock of birds dancing their way home. It is joyous to see. Owls and foxes call out at night. Soon there will be young
birds and butterflies.
Today:
What gifts have animals given to me, what do they teach me about life? What can I do to make the world a better
place for all creatures?
When I adopted my dog, I was bed bound from a job-related accident which happened during my employment as an elementary school teacher eleven years ago. Since then she has been my companion, caretaker, and prayer partner. When I go out somewhere, she patiently waits 'till I return to play, to run, to eat. Joyce is her name and Pomeranian her breed. Her unconditional love, kindness, and loyalty are traits worth sharing with humanity.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear of your accident, but thank you for sharing that heart warming story. Animal companions are quite amazing.
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