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By MaryHelen Swanson
Usually, I’m
not real fond of forwarded e-mails, but I have to say this one is one
I’d like to share. Read this little story and see if you don’t agree.
“A Dog’s Purpose (from a 6-year-old). By a veterinarian.
“Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a 10-year-old
Irish Wolfhound names Belker. The dog’s owners, Ron and his wife Lisa.
and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker and they
were hoping for a miracle. I examined Belker and found he was dying of
cancer. I told the family we couldn’t do anything for Belker and
offered to perform the euthanasia for the 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 he might
learn something from the experience.
“The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker’s
family surrounded him. Shame 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 away peacefully. The little boy
seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or
confusion.
“We sat together for a while after Belker’s death, wondering aloud
about the sad fact that animals’ 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 all the time and being nice, right? He continued,
‘Well, dogs already know how to do that so they don’t have to stay as
long.’
And the e-mail admonishes us to live simply, love generously, care
deeply, speak kindly, Remember, it goes on, if a dog were the teacher
you would learn things like: when loved ones come home, always run to
greet them. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride. Allow
the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to 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 lie on your back in the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie 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 what you want 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.
I don’t know if this is just a little made up story, or possibly true,
but is sure does go straight to the heart. And it contains some might
important advice for us human beings.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
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