Compassion, Connection and Living in the Now

“Those who teach most about humanity aren’t always humans”.

Are you a dog lover? I am.

Animals of all kinds can bring us so much joy, not only when things are going well, but also when we feel pain and are suffering.

Dogs have long been known as man’s faithful best friend. It has been assumed for years that dogs are loyal to us because we provide them with their basic needs. But when you see how your dog reacts when they see you, you know it’s much more.

The most unwavering attribute that a pooch possesses is its never-ending loyalty to its owner. Once a bond has been forged between a dog and human it is very hard to break. It is heart-warming to think of the amount of unconditional love and defiant loyalty that this animal can have for its owner.

An endearing characteristic that is persistent with dogs is their loving nature and joy of interaction. A dog will accept its owner without question. If an owner provides food, water, shelter and love then a dog will see that person as its whole world and love them completely.

An underlying aspect of a dog’s personality is its ability to understand. They can recognize their owner’s frame of mind and emotions and react to those emotions. And there are aid dogs help people with all kinds of varying incapacities. Nevertheless, they are very social creature and likes to be involved with what humans are doing.

I’ve dogs in my life. I’ve love them all. It has always felt comforting to me to have a dog around. The joy dogs provide is well worth the effort.

We all have struggles and challenges in our life, and it’s during those times that our pets can really come in handy to help us find our joy.

As I watched my dogs go through their day, I realized the lessons are really right there in front of me if I care to pay attention.

Here are some of the ways I can be the person my dog wants me to be, and be the person I want to be as well. I know that whatever life brings me, joy is still always there for the taking.

1. Live for Today

We can spend time regretting the past and worrying about the future. We can appreciate every moment as it comes and be grateful for what we have.

2. Connect with others

Our relationships with others nurture our soul. We may neglect our friends because of our work or other interests. We may just get busy and forget to stay in touch. When we look to our dogs, they need our connection on a daily basis. When we stay connected with others, it feeds our soul and helps to lead us to a long life.

3. Forgive

When you study animal packs, there is rarely a conflict, as the members of the pack solve their problems and move on. They don’t hold a grudge or worry about what happened yesterday. Forgiveness may be something we consider.

4. Trust your intuition

Dogs understand what is going on beneath the surface, as they are led by their instincts and rely on their gut reactions. We listen to words, but neglect our inner feelings. Hone in on your intuition and it will guide you to a life of peace and serenity.

5. Make every day special

Sometimes we can let days go by and get swallowed up in our routine. We can learn so much by observing how our pets have enthusiasm for the simple joys of everyday life. Everyday can be special for us as well. When we take the time to look, we may find our joy is still there waiting to be rediscovered.

I’d be miss if I didn’t mention one more obvious thing. No matter what I’m feeling—busy, stressed, anxious, angry—just spending time with fur babies be it my own dogs or any pets/strays and watching them is all it takes to feel better.

Petting a dog can be one of the most mindful, peaceful, and spiritual moments you can have.

Much Love

RK