A New Year, A Dog’s Life

How many of you have made lists of New Year’s Resolutions? I haven’t made an actual list in years, but I do like the contemplative practice of looking back over the time marked in a calendar year as it comes to a close, and then shifting my perspective toward looking ahead.

At first glance, 2008 brings me a personal sense of “well I’m glad that’s over” and “this had better be an improvement” accompanies my forward thinking. But those shallow thoughts quickly give way to deeper musings about the incredible blessings that have graced the past 365 days. In spite of occasional challenges, my entire life truly has been swathed in comfort, care, love beyond measure and innumerable blessings.

For those whose lives feel less idyllic, I hope you can reflect on the lessons of gratitude and the power of focusing on the good things the past year has brought you. But don’t take it from me. Take it from my dog.

Our dog Hunter was 12 years old when he died in February. He had written our family Christmas letter for years. Having no thumbs, he wrote in all lower case, as using the shift key was an added burden that encumbered his creative muse. He shared wisdom as only a family pet can…from the objective perspective that sees us as we are, and loves us regardless. As I move into a new year, I will remember some of the things I’ve learned from the world’s best and most patient canine…

Be Flexible. No matter how significantly plans changed…regardless of missed expectations for walks or play…Hunter loved life. He just needed us with him and life was good indeed. He seemed to live each moment as if to say, “Oh, so this is what we’re doing. Good deal!” And with a wag of his tail to express his acceptance, he’d embrace the moment as a gift offered. I’d like to remember that is exactly what each moment is.

Be Happy. Hunter was known by one woman on our walking route as “the dog who smiles.” He always had a smile and wriggling sense of ready and joyful engagement for strangers. Smiles for strangers. Sharing happiness. More good lessons.

Hard times never last. When I traveled, Greg said Hunter would always just wait at the back door, even if many days passed before my return. That dog didn’t rip into the furniture in an angry tirade, or sulk in a corner. He just patiently waited, exchanging his warmth and enthusiasm with everyone else, but waiting for me. And I always came home. Hunter knew what we all need to remember…this too shall pass. And we need to remember that truth in times of want and also our times of plenty. Again, the moment is a gift. And it will pass.

Celebrate the ordinary. When Hunter saw the leash in my hand, he would leap through the air like a puppy and charge at the front door with so much reckless abandon that he would often overshoot his breaks and start his walk with a thumk on his head. That would do nothing to minimize his thrill over another walk. And we walked the same route virtually every day. A new same thing…what joy!

Be silly. Hunter had stuffed toys in a basket. He would lift one out at a time and throw it in the air. Then he’d growl and pounce on it, unleashing his inner puppy. He’d thrash about with a toy under his back and all four paws treading the air as if he was a retriever sumo wrestler. He knew the toys weren’t real, but he took delight in play. Learn to be silly for goodness sake.

Make contact. If anyone had his or her feet on the ottoman, Hunter claimed it as a perfect opportunity. He would rub his face and head all around the willing feet until he either tired , or was shooed away. Whether he saw an extended hand or elevated feet…he never missed a moment to exchange affection.

Hope, Peace, Love and Joy to you my friends, as we stand on the brink of a year full of goodness.

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