What Dogs Teach Us About Living in the Moment
This past week our family went from a 1 dog family to a 2 dog family. It’s only temporary. We are dog sitting for our dear friends labradoodle puppy for a few weeks while they are on vacation. Our 13 year old chocolate lab’s world has been rocked. If only I could explain to her that this lovable, playful, excitable dog will go back to her own home in a few weeks time.
Dogs are known (as well as many other animals) for bringing us so much joy. They are filled with unconditional love, not only when things are going well, but also when we feel pain and are suffering. This little labradoodle couldn’t have come at a better time for a visit. While all the tragedy and heartbreak is going on in the world around us, both dogs (as far as I can tell) know nothing of it and continue to live in the moment.
Here are a few things that I’ve learned from the dogs this week:
- When someone is having a difficult day sit close by and let them know you’re there. No words needed.
- Live in the moment. Work hard to be grateful for every moment and appreciate all that you have.
- Don’t take anything for granted.
- Greet everyone as though you haven’t seen them in years.
- Make everyday exciting and new.
- Be who you are.
- Take the time to play.
- Forgive and let go of grudges.
Dogs love ice cream as much as we do.
Just that look is enough to make you smile.
What a gift this puppy has been for all of us.
In what ways do your pets show you how to live in the moment?
In honor of not-so Wordless Wednesday I’ve linked up with Better in Bulk, Dagmar’s Momsense, Live and Love Out Loud, Project Alicia, Mama Dweeb and I Thought I Knew Mama.
I love this post! Thanks and a great reminder. Those pictures are enough to lift my spirits
Dogs are such great teachers. This post reminds me of one I wrote a year after our 15-year-old lab passed away. It’s on my old blog at Open Salon, which can take forever to open. But here’s the link if you are interested: http://open.salon.com/blog/judith_a_ross/2011/08/29/lessons_from_a_good_old_dog
And, yes, honestly, who can resist that bright-eyed look from the puppy, and your lab looks pretty happy too!
Judith A. Ross recently posted..“If It Were Up to Me”
Adorable! And a great lesson! We are pet-free at the moment but it might not last for long…
Micaela @MindfulMomma recently posted..Dolphin Organics Gift Sets {+ a Giveaway!}
Look at those eyes!
Good Girl Gone Green recently posted..Eco-Friendly Gifts
you’re right, dogs know how to live the moment! and this one is particularly cute
Stephanie@Henry Happened recently posted..recipe | Cookies ‘N Cream Fudge + 10 Minute Microwave Brittle
So true! We are a two-dog family for a reason. Love them!
Kim @ The Soulicious Life recently posted..Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups
Thank you for this. It is such a great reminder to slow down, think of others, and count your blessings.
So true Heather. Happy holidays!
Hi Kim, It’s definitely fun having a puppy around. My 13 year old lab doesn’t think so, but we do!
Thanks Stephanie. She is so cute-a little impish, but adorable.
Great post… thinking you’re absolutely right as I watch my little Boston Terrier snoring peacefully on the bed beside me
Thank you and happy holidays to you and your pets,
Dawna
Dawna recently posted..Beagle Boston Terrier Mix – Breed Information, Photos, Videos
Thanks Dawna. Boston Terriers are so adorable. Happy holidays to you too!
[...] What Dogs Teach Us About Living in the Moment | Older December 21st, [...]
Adorable pictures! We lost our Chesapeake Bay Retriever a few years ago and this is melting my heart and making me long for another puppy in the house!
There’s nothing like having a puppy around Suzanne!
[...] was next to impossible to ignore. The hugs were that much bigger and the ability to remain present in the moment was that much simpler. This vacation represented a much needed break from reality and it’s [...]