Life Lessons from Our Dog
by Sally ~ July 1st, 2009. Filed under: fun, Happiness, joy, Life Lessons, mentors, play, time management.
Our black lab, Nikki manages to teach us a thing or two about living a happy life with her profound wisdom.
If You Want Something, Ask.
Nikki may take this a little far and can be shameless in her persistent pleas for dog treats. But the fact she “asks” for them every chance she gets by trying to lock eyes with us and move us toward the treat jar, as if we are in a hypnotic state, she gets more treats. She keeps us reminded of what she wants and doesn’t assume we’ll remember on our own.
Show Your Appreciation
When you pet our dog and she really likes it, she moans with loud, audible breathing that sounds like Darth Vader. It’s hard not to laugh and keep petting her.
If we had known this about her from the beginning, we may have named her Mona (Lisa) instead.
Enjoy Your Work
She takes her job seriously as Ranch Security around here. She takes great pride in barking at coyotes and raccoons, and chasing squirrels, but wags her tail just the same.
Learn to Relax and Take a Break
This may be one of Nikki’s finest skills. While being in charge of Ranch Security is an unrelenting 24/7 on call business, she takes her relaxation just as seriously.
She knows to be her best, she has to listen to her body. When she is sleepy, she doesn’t fight it. She gives it 100%, takes a deep breath, and surrenders to as many naps as it takes.
Wag Your Tail
If you’re happy and you know it, wag your tail. Good moods and enthusiasm are contagious. No matter what kind of day you are having, when you are greeted with such obvious delight, it’s hard not to respond in kind.
As we mature, we learn not to outwardly show our emotion. Maybe we could let just a little of the merriment out now and again. Perhaps it would be better to show your momentary glee in public by smiling, giggling or clapping. Wagging your tail may have undesired consequences.
Be an Explorer
Using all your senses, especially your intuition helps you to be alert and aware for adventure along the way.
Being ready for a crumb dropped here or a scent on the trail of excitement will make today another really good day.
P.S. I did the painting above with acrylics.
Please comment on this and share lessons you’ve learned from your pet.
July 7th, 2009 at 6:42 am
Hi Sally, I got a real kick out of Nikki’s story and her way of being! Fun and there’s definitely something to be learned there!
July 7th, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Dear Sally,
Thank you for your lovely obsevation about Nikki. The painting so easily shows her personality, labs are so cool. She reminds me of my boys when they were little. What you see is what you get!!! Muddy paws,(hands) and all.
Forget about finding our inner child! How about our inner pup?
Good job,
Mary Anne
July 7th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Linda,
Thanks! Yes, she is full of good lessons, even when she’s sleeping!
July 7th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Mary Anne,
Thanks for commenting – I’m glad you enjoyed it. I like that – your inner pup! And there is something to be said for kids, dogs, and pets where they don’t hide what they want or need – it’s much more transparent.
July 23rd, 2009 at 7:00 pm
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