Friday, August 11, 2023

Lessons from a Dog's Life .. and Death

Just three days ago, my pet dog died of natural causes. Even though it was expected due to her old age, it still had a devastating effect on our family.  

Losing a pet is incredibly difficult, as she had become a cherished member of our family. Our pet had a significant impact on our life, and there are several valuable lessons that she taught us, in life and death.

1.     Unconditional Love: Dogs, in general, are known for their unwavering love and loyalty. They teach us to love others without judgment or conditions, reminding us of the importance of showing affection and care to those around us.

2.     Living in the Present: Dogs live in the moment, fully enjoying each experience. They teach us to appreciate the simple pleasures in life and to be present in the here and now.

3.     Forgiveness: Dogs don't hold grudges. They quickly forgive and forget, showing us the value of letting go of negativity and moving forward with a positive attitude.

4.     Empathy and Compassion: Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions. They teach us to be more empathetic and understanding toward the feelings of others.

5.     Loyalty: Dogs are famously loyal companions. They demonstrate the importance of standing by those we care about, through happiness and distress.

6.     Resilience: Dogs often face challenges with determination and a positive outlook. They can inspire us to overcome difficulties and setbacks with grace and perseverance.

7.     Routine and Responsibility: Taking care of a pet, especially a dog, requires consistency and responsibility. My pet taught me about the importance of sticking to routines and being accountable for the well-being of another living being.

8.     Nonverbal Communication: Dogs communicate primarily through body language and nonverbal cues. They remind us of the importance of paying attention to nonverbal communication in our interactions with others.

9.     Joy in Simple Things: Dogs find joy in the simplest of activities, like going for a walk or playing with a toy. They show us that happiness can often be found in the everyday moments.

10.Patience: Dogs teach us patience through their needs and behaviours. Whether it's waiting for a treat or learning a new command, they remind us that good things come to those who wait.

11.Acceptance: Dogs don't judge us based on our appearances, achievements, or mistakes. They accept us for who we are, teaching us the importance of embracing others without prejudice.

12.Teaching Humility: Dogs don't seek material possessions or boast about their accomplishments. They can help us remember the value of humility and not getting caught up in materialistic pursuits.

13. Dignified in Death: In her last moments, my pet isolated herself into a corner and passed away without us having to watch her go. Her dignity in death taught me that we must live every moment of our life with the utmost dignity till our last breath.

Yes, she was just a canine, but she was an awesome companion and a great tutor. May her soul find salvation and happiness where it goes…. 


 

 

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