Dog days

I am day by day accessing the untold benefits of this new pup. I have seen the dawn, heard and responded to the morning birds, gazed at the stars and moon more times in the last few days than in months, maybe years. Realized that being barefoot in the grass in the morning dew is pleasant. But that it is smart to place important things in place you will remember, because you might need things in a hurry. Also, the truth of this saying “You can lead a pup to grass, but you can’t make him poop”. Is that a saying? It should be.

I have cleaned the floors of my house more thoroughly and regularly than ever. Been shown all kinds of tunnels, caves and toys. Laundry was never so entertaining. I have met new people and taken time share more than just a quick greeting.

We discovered a full rainbow in the spray of the hose. ( did you know you can see the full spectrum and circumference of a rainbow if you position the spray in just the right angle in relation to the sunlight? ).

We have listened to my sister Ruth, (who has such a myriad of god-given and well honed talents) play our grandmother’s piano piece “Mountain Stream” composer unknown, our mama’s piece “Liebestraum – Nocturne in A flat”, a most lovely “Autumn Leaves” which she sang and played and a great jazz blues piece of Ruth’s own composition. Beau needed to be exposed , and it was not only he whose brain was enriched as we listened in rapture. ( on a side note, years ago Ruth pieced together in her mind and on the keys the full rendition of “Mountain Stream” as there is no sheet music for it to be found. )

Being responsible for a creature with needs to find pattern, to explore, to learn and to rest gives one reason to do the same. Taking care of one so loyal and dependent gives reason to be one’s best self. The rewards of kindness and praise are so evident. It would never have occurred to me how taking care of something could make me more thoughtful and productive, and that might not always be the case – for me or others, but somehow it has and it can. It is a mystery and one of many. A garden, a tree, a child, the earth, life, responsibility – so mysterious and grand. Stay humble, little ones.