By A.J. Llewellyn
I have come to envy my dog. It's not just that she has a damned good life, but because she has the perfect attitude to life. Recently, I've made a study of my dog, Venus, and realized by adapting her style to my life as a man and a writer, I can live a happy, fulfilled existence. And be so much more productive.
In no particular order, here are the things she has taught me, that have started to serve me well.
10. Every blade of grass has its own particular scent. Stop, sniff, then sniff some more. It all may be mowed down tomorrow.
9. Take your time and enjoy what you're doing in this moment. Good things come to the dog who does this.
8. Investigate everything. Don't listen to rumors. If you don't hunt for answers yourself, you will never know what tasty, informed things you'll find.
7. Mud holes, dirty ponds and the Venice canals are fabulous for impromptu swims. Baths with good smelling stuff...not so much.
6. Eat your food slowly and with both hands. You'll never eat this particular dish again. Nothing is as tasty as this moment.
5. Making eye contact with your loved ones is invaluable. One eye stare is worth a thousand words. Humans do understand certain "looks." No need to threaten or yell. They get it.
4. Writing is like sleeping. Don't bother me when I am doing it, or supervising it.
3. I am a dog. What's yours is mine. Period.
2. Barking at the waves crashing on the shore is the most fun thing you can do. The waves like it.
And finally...
1. Running up to strange men and sticking your nose into their crotches only works when you are a dog. It works for Venus. Doesn't for me. Take my word on that.
What about you, what have you learned from your animals??
Aloha oe,
A.J.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
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6 comments:
i learned from my turtle and Guinea pig that life is too short not to nap often
So...just how many men have you ran up to and stuck your nose in their crotches? lol
Hmmm...what have I learned...When you want attention...take it, don't wait for the other person. :)
LMAO...this is so true...and we humans need more of this attitude!
Now, there is one pet I can't comment on as our dog passed away very unexpectedly Friday early AM. Boomer was a happy-go-lucky dog who came home in my coat one night when my DH wasn't looking. He was a great companion and loved my DH till the end. The DH was petting him when he crossed the Rainbow Bridge and although a sad moment, the way the dog needed to go.
We have a new puppy name Jasper and he jogs with the DH every morning. He's only 6 months old and an all around good kid so far. I'll keep you posted. From him, I've learned that I should just learn to go with the flow and be happy.
From Cleo, our delicate calico 5 yo cat, I've learned 'blondes do have more fun' and she can make every situation, even the horrible ones good.
From Cinnamon,our 3 yo rescued cat, sometimes it good to run away till another day. Things you don't like will eventually give up and go away.
From Sam, our 7 yo black siamese cat, I have learned the most from her: It is good to be Queen. Yeah, she does rule the roost as we recently noted when we brought home the puppy. She didn't approve and hissed at us for days whereas the puppy, she ignored.
Lynn
From my beagles...
Make a joyful noise. Run like the wind. Follow your nose, it may lead you to something wonderful.
From my corgi...
Don't take anyone's crap. Always look 'em in the eye. A soft pillow is a girl's best friend.
Erin
Hi Lynn, my heart breaks for you. I am sorry for your loss. Boomer went the way all animals should, with dignity and love. I am glad your other animal companions have taught you so much. Jasper will have lessons for you too!
Silver, I forgot about the nap lesson. I haven't heeded that one yet and will do so this weekend!
Jambrea, I refuse to answer the crotch question in case D.J. is reading this, but I love what you have learned about taking attention when you wanted. SO true!
Hi Erin, I love your lessons learned. I must by a new, soft pillow. Today!
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