WHAT I LEARNED FROM SPIRIT
Spirit is our 13-year old wonder dog. She is a Viszla and you will see her picture on our homepage and here on the blog. Richard Norris remembers seeing some thoughts I had written a while back about what I learned (and continue to learn) form Spirit. She is the most playful, loving, fit and good natured 90-year old (in dog years!) that I know. So thanks for asking Richard. I dusted off these pearls of wisdom from Spirit and I hope you enjoy them - they come from a very deep place – the heart of a special hound!
• Every day is new day - I don’t remember the past.
• Be happy.
• Love what you do so much that there is no difference between Monday and Saturday.
• Run, romp and play daily.
• Be in the moment when going for a joyride.
• Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
• Be sure you can run backwards as fast as you can run forwards.
• Never pass up the opportunity to explore new areas.
• Experience the pure ecstasy of fresh air and the wind in your face.
• Mark your territory - it belongs to you AND whoever else shows up.
• On hot days, drink lots of water and lie in the shade.
• Leave room in your schedule for regular naps and stretch before rising.
• Take as much sleep as you need and don’t be too fussy about where you choose to nap.
• Walk around in a circle three times before settling down.
• If you are uncomfortable, just go to another place that feels better.
• When you are no longer the center of attention, find a comfortable spot to lie down.
• You know what? I’m happy with what I’ve got - no need to take me shopping.
• Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
• If it itches, scratch it.
• A stick is not just a stick - if you play with me and make it fun, it will be a joyful and transcending thing.
• When meeting new friends for the first time - make it very clear how glad you are to make their acquaintance.
• When meeting old friends for the umpteenth time - make it very clear how glad you are to be reacquainted.
• Give people lots of attention and welcome their affection.
• Be tactile - welcome strokes.
• When loved ones come home, greet them as if you haven’t seen them for years - even if they only left five minutes ago.
• Practice vulnerability, humility and obedience - it is usually in your best interest.
• Be kind no matter what happens to others.
• Always be ready to learn something new. The rewards can be handsome.
• When it feels right, make lots of noise.
• Make sure your bite is always less than your bark.
• Avoid biting when a simple stare or growl will do – or better still a winsome or baleful look.
• Forgiveness is a wonderful thing - don’t hold grudges for more than two minutes.
• Harbor no hidden agendas.
• No matter how often you are scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout…run right back and make friends. Hold no rancor.
• When someone is unwell, sit beside them and comfort them.
• Know that I will comfort you. No matter what happens to you, I’ll be there.
• Offer protection to others - help them to feel safe.
• Be loyal.
• Let’s take care of each other. If someone I don’t approve of approaches, I will protect you. Will you please do the same for me?
• With regard to hugs - just ask. If I want one, I will ask; if you want one, please do the same.
• Pre-rinse dishes. If you do not know how, just let me know and I will give you lessons.
• Directness is a wonderful thing. If you want something, just make your desire very clear.
• Don’t overlook the value of begging - used sparingly, it is a good device, and even simpering can be effective when practiced judiciously.
• It can never be said enough: If you told me each time you thought "I love you", I would love you more.
• Speaking of love - just give it unconditionally.
• Let others know when they are invading your boundaries.
• When you make a mistake (the imnevitable flatulence for example) just carry on like nothing happened, or make it cute, and everyone will think you are lovable.
• If you stare at someone long enough, eventually, you’ll get what you want.
• If you want something, like a peanut for example, just sit near it until someone gives you one. If you really want something - drool. Intentionality works.
• Respect your elders.
• Don’t go out without ID.
• Know who you are - don’t pretend to be something you are not.
• Subdue your ego. If we decide to make each other look silly, let’s agree we won’t hurt each other’s feelings.
• If you ever feel angry, remember these three words of advice: get over it.
• If what you want what lies buried, dig until you find it.
• If someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit by them and be their gentle friend.
• When you are happy, let people know - dance around and wag from head to tail.
• Remember the Law of Dog Karma: What you give is what you get.
• Your Personal Motto should be: "To be the kind of person your dog thinks you are."
March 6th, 2006 at 5:50 pm
In the year of the dog what more will your heart and soul need to spark your intuition and polish up your natural virtues. This is a dog’s gift to humanity!
Cheers,
Michel