12 Things My Dog Is Trying To Teach Me

We treat our dogs as if they were almost human. That’s why they really become almost human in the end. ~ C.S. Lewis

Something about a dog teaches us what it means to be human. Maybe it’s their tug on our shirt-tails as we struggle up the ladder in our attempt to be as gods.

A wagging tale, a tennis ball, well-drooled dropped at our feet. An offended glance at the empty food dish. Dogs humble us, remind us we are not the divine beings we are pretending to be. Yet they love us anyway.

If you are a dog lover, you need no explanation for this post. If you are not, (and I see you rolling your eyes), bear with me. I’ve received some wordless wisdom through the years from Pixie (shown here, enjoying a quiet moment), and thought it a good time to share:

12 Things My Dog Is Trying To Teach Me

1. Life is not a race, stop and sniff the bushes.
2. People matter. Drop what you are doing when someone walks in.
3. Embrace distractions–they may be worth the chase.
4. A silent presence is more welcome than annoying barks.
5. Sit very still, patient and alert, and good things will be given to you.
6. A nap is a good way to make time go faster when you’re stuck at home all alone.
7. A roll in the grass, or a good long chew, will make most problems go away.
8. Be clear about your boundaries where others are concerned.
9. Finding a good family is better than life lived alone.
10. You can forgive and forget most offenses–never hold a grudge.
11. Be grateful for all things, even mysterious crumbs on the floor.
12. What you have done, the messes you’ve made, are not what determines how much you are loved.

Have you benefited from canine wisdom? What wisdom would your dog add?