My Lessons

My dogs are smart. I know that I may be just a wee bit biased.  I say they are smart because they have taught me, or confirmed for me, many life lessons. I consider them to be wise creatures and like most dog owners, aspire to be as wonderful as they think I am. Some lessons are lighthearted, some are deep, others sappy, but all are a good guide for life. Here is what they have taught me:

• Affection and love can be expressed a million ways
• Love should and can be unconditional
• To be loved, give love
• No one is perfect; forgiveness is essential
• Mistakes just mean you need to keep learning
• Growing pains are not easy; that’s why they’re called ‘pains’ – but you do survive them
• It is the duty of the elder to teach the young about life
• Sharing your treat is a sweet way to show you care
• A brisk walk is good for the soul (and the waistline)
• Naps are always a good idea
• Sometimes you just need to play
• Sunshine warms the heart and the body
• Puppy therapy is the best therapy there is
• Quiet reflection can happen anywhere at any time
• Smiles are contagious, especially lopsided, toothy grins
• Love can happen at first sight
• Sometimes you do have to sample a variety to find your favorite
• Making someone laugh at your own folly will make it funnier for you, too
• Separation is hard, but the reunion is joyful
• Treats make a happy tummy and a happy spirit
• Boredom leads to trouble –always
• Companionship is more important than flashy trends or beauty
• Youth is fleeting; wisdom is forever
• To make someone laugh is a gift given by the soul to the soul
• A little extra weight is not always a bad thing
• We all need to be held on occasion and sometimes we need to do the holding
• Snuggling with someone is the best way to nap
• The heart’s desire should not be resisted
• Toys are more fun when shared
• Always say you’re sorry when you hurt someone
• Wrinkles mean you have character
• A broken heart can be mended by lots of love and kisses and hugs
• Sitting quietly near someone is enough sometimes
• Life isn’t fair; it’s how you deal with it that shapes your character

This post was originally published March 28, 2011 on DogBreedStore.com’s Today’s Wolf. All content is original and mine.