Last Saturday I spent a few hours basking in the sun at a nearby pond and walking trail. I brought a book to read, but after cracking open the spine, realized that I had just recently read it. This saddened me greatly as I was looking forward to reading, but a distraction soon surfaced. A golf cart with some friends I hadn't seen in months drove by as they parked to go fishing. The next hour was pleasantly spent chatting with my friends about everything and nothing. When they left, I once again was alone with my thoughts. I pulled out my laptop and started on some schoolwork, but soon became distracted by the sleepy feelings the warm sun brings about. I love to people watch, so I contented myself with surreptitiously observing the people walking the trail around the pond.
There were a few runners, but most people were out walking their dogs. There were all kinds of dogs! Small ones, large ones, medium sized ones. Some with prissy leashes and clothing, and some that fetched sticks out of the water. (There was in fact one particular dog who was very spoiled... his owner was pushing him or her in... a baby stroller!) But all of them were happy go lucky, tails wagging and tongues lolling from their mouth enjoying the day. The people may not have smiles on their faces, but their four legged friends did! Dogs have an amazing ability. And that ability is to unconditionally love their owners. When I see my own puppy look up at me with those deep brown eyes as he trots over to lay down next to me, I can't help but feel that he really does love me. Granted, animals do not have quite the same capacity for love that humans do - but they are loyal, and fiercely protective. I think they can be an example for us. Life is hard, no question about it. But we can view it in two ways. With a sour look and a poor attitude, or by throwing our heads back, smiling, shaking off the negativity and taking life as it comes while energizing ourself with the love of those around us.
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