This story , by Janine Allen, arrived via email the other day, and thought today, the four-month anniversary of Carter’s farewell would be a nice time to share it.
Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn’t be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn’t want her to know that I hadn’t been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn’t want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn’t feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone’s life.
She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.
A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven’t walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.
Nelson Mandela’s clan name is Madiba. And so is the style of shirt he commonly wore.
In a busy world, television is one of the things I’ve given up. No time for it after all the more important things get handled.
But last night, with iPad on lap, I casually tuned in and out of the ABC special featuring the FIFA Soccer World Cup from South Africa. I recall Alicia Keys, Desmond Tutu, Madiba, and one other poignant moment.
It’s a moment in history most of us are familiar with, but for some reason, it’s significance really washed over me last night.
Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison and then became President of his Country.
And now, in what should be one of the most joyful moments of his life, is one of the saddest. Heartfelt prayers to Nelson, and to anyone dealing with unbearable pain (which should cover just about everyone).
There is no fancy website test here. But the question, “How well do you pray?”, is a good one to think about.
For probably 20 years, I’ve thought to myself that the meaning of life is peace and contentment.
Peace with who you are, and content with what you have.
In 51 years, I have found nothing even comes close to offering this, except daily, moment to moment prayer. And in the last ten years, through trial and error, there is great peace and contentment.
The phrase “carpediem“, or seize the day, means nothing, if you don’t actually do it.
And doing it requires a peace and contentment that is uncommon.
Being present. Being thankful. Being forgiving. Exercise. Nutrition. Rest. Play. Purposeful work.
I don’t think these are out of reach for anyone. Do you?