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PatchWork by Joyce Whitis |
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PatchWork by Joyce Whitis |
Dogs
It had been a very long, sometimes frustrating day, dealing with lots of people, some whose thoughts about running the world did not agree with my own.
As I got in my car, bucked up and sped off down the highway, every nerve seemed to be exposed. I turned to the radio for comfort and stepped on the gas. As the car laid down and slithered along the newly paved road, an idea came suddenly to mind. It was almost like somebody whispered in my ear and asked, "What are you running after?"
Out loud I answered, "Why....I just need to get home."
"Then," the thought came back, slow down and take it easy!"
"OK"
What I really needed to do, what I was in such a hurry about was that I wanted to get to a keyboard before I forgot what I wanted to say, but I did slow down and as soon as I got home, Gorbie, our big dark colored German Shepherd and Chili, our tan Chihuahua came flying out to see me. As I talked to the dogs, patted their heads and slipped them each a treat from the grocery sack, I realized for the hundredth time how much their companionship means to Tom and me.
Dogs have always been a big part of my life before and after marriage and happily the man I married feels strongly about our pets as well. Through the years I have learned a lot from my animals, some from cows, some from cats, and some from a spider monkey.
Things I have learned from dogs:
l. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
2. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure happiness.
3. When loved ones come home, always run to meet them.
4. When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
5. Always be careful to mark your territory.
6. Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
7. Take naps and always stretch before rising.
8. Run, romp, and play daily.
9. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
10. Be loyal.
11. Never pretend to be something you're not.
12. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
13. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
14. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
15. Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
16. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
17. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
18. When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
19. No matter how often you are criticized, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.
20. When members of your family are in the middle of a shouting match, go off by yourself and lie down.
21. If the bone you get has little meat on it, grab it anyway and be thankful for what you have.
22. If injured in a fight for principal, crawl off, lick your wounds, and come back for more discussion.
23. If you aren't the lead dog, the scene never changes.
24. If you can't run with the big dogs, stay on the porch.
25. When you feel old age creeping up on you, sit close to the fire and dream a lot.