A DOG'S PURPOSE (from a 6 year old)
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a 10 year old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners Ron, his wife, Lisa and their 6 year old son, Shane were very attached to the dog and were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family there was nothing we could do for Belker and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for their old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from this experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept the transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death and wondered about the sad fact that animal's lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why".
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.
He said "People are born so they can learn how to live a good life--like loving everybody and being nice, right?"
The six year old continued, " Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."
Live simply.
Live generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if the dog were the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, get up and run and greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and wind in your face be pure ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days,stop to lay on your back in the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If you want what lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
And so to the the very wise 6year old who spoke these thought provoking words and the veterinarian who wrote the rest, thank you. I wish I could give you credit, I just love this essay.
If anyone knows who wrote this, please let me know so I can give credit.
May we all learn something from our little fur babies.
Hugs,
Pat
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5 comments:
Pat,
That is so heart warming. I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes. DH is out of town today. I'm going to call him right now and tell him how much I appreciate and love him.
Thank you so much for this post.
Vera
I loved this story. It was very heart warming. I will read it to my family when they come over. Have a wonderful day. Kath'
Oh, Pat! That is so sweet and so very special. Children just sometimes have a real way of knowing what to say and it is SO endearing. I had tears, too!
Thanks for sharing!
Mary P
http://MarysCottageTreasures.com/
Hi Pat.. I hope you are getting some rest. I worry about you :). I have heard that sweet story before. What a nice post to read today:)
Have a pretty day,,, relax and enjoy a little sunshine/
((())) hugs always. gail
Okay, now I have to go and get a big fat hankie. What a wonderful story, thank you so much for sharing it wish us all. I am off to get up and greet my family coming home, with my whole body wagging as best it can, Blessings, Maureen.
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