10 July 2009

Everything I Need To Know, I Learned From My Dogs

I was reflecting today upon the many important life lessons I’ve learned from my dogs. Here is their advice to you:


“You’re never too old to have a second childhood. Take time to enjoy the finer things in life, like a polo match and a glass of Pimm’s! Keep up with the whippersnappers and they’ll keep you young. Maintain a merry disposition. Share your blessings with others. Don’t let disabilities or aging get you down.” ~ Valentine, age, “Decrepit! But don’t order my urn yet!”; Springer Spaniel.



“Play hard. Get as much exercise as possible. Have a good appetite. Drink lots of water. Enjoy fresh air. Take a walk. Get enough sleep. Healthy living can help overcome illness. Give hugs often. Never pass up the opportunity to take a road trip.” ~ Boris, age two or three; Husky/Cattledog/other mix.



“Be grateful for what you’ve received. Be friendly to everyone you meet. Be curious about life. Be sweet. Don’t be shy. Go with the flow and adversity will pass you by.” ~ Otter, age about two; Labrador Retriever/other mix.



“Remain mindful and focused at all times. Don’t become ensnared by the power struggles of others. Have a sense of humor. Be present and poised for action. Deflect conflict with the strength of your Chi. Don’t abuse your power. Meditate: Om Mani Dobie Hum. Fiber is good for the digestion.” ~ Emma, The Doggie Lama, age three (plus several hundred reincarnated lifetimes); enlightened Doberman Pinscher.



“Take a bite out of life! Be tenacious for what you want. Fake it ‘til you make it. Make a lot of noise if you believe you’re right. A little mischief will often be forgiven if you’re cute. Have enough spunk, and you can stand up to anyone. Be kind to the weak and small. It’s good to have a schedule and stick to it, especially where meals are concerned. Give kisses freely.” ~ Molly, age two; Tasmanian Devil/Wolverine/Karelian Bear Dog/Heinzer


And from all of them…

“A little dust and dirt never hurt anyone. Life is short, so get out there and live it! The things that matter most are right in front of you... take time to pay attention.”

8 comments:

Artful Gathering said...

so very cute and true! Dawn

Nancy said...

Let's hear it for the wisdom of our animal companions! All very true.
Nancy

Stephanie said...

What a great post. I'll have to steal your idea for one from my dogs. :)

Renaissance said...

Words of wisdom indeed - love this post.

Patty said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Patty said...

Love it! Dogs rock!

thecrazysheeplady said...

This is great! Very well done. Love the doggie lama and we rescued a sweet brown dog once we named Otter too. Hadn't been over in awhile - since your fishing trip I don't believe. I really enjoy your blog. You should blog more :-D. In your spare time... ;-)

Saint Tim is headed to Boyds next week for a week of fishing. I would love to go, but can't bring myself to be gone that long. Sigh.

BClark said...

Ah, yes, our pets do give us lessons every day. With our Molly/Redbone hound/Blue heeler, it is patience. Never having had a hound before I was not ready for baying which she delights in doing when I least expect it. Also trying to get her attention when she is hot on a scent is a bit of a trial. Unconditional love is what we learn from Charlie the German Shorthair/Chocolate Lab mix. He chose us to love and no matter how often he was taken home, as soon as he could get loose he was back. Jim says he knew the right place, where he could come inside, get good food and be loved bunches. Best to you