By Joe Mazzella
Sometimes during a hot, lazy, summer afternoon my mind wanders. The other day I was sitting in my chair and my thoughts went to what it would be like to switch places with my dogs. It seemed like a pretty good deal to me. I would love to be able lay around, eat, and play for six hours a day then sleep for the other 18. It would be nice being able to do my business outside on my favorite tree instead of running inside to the bathroom. I would enjoy it if a can of dog food could get me jumping up and down with excitement like it was a gourmet meal. I would take great pleasure in barking at the garbage truck as it rolls up our road so very early in the morning. It would be so much fun just running through the house, fetching a ball, or chewing on a bone. And how I would love being able to always steal the best place on the couch right in front of the fan in the summer and under the blanket in the winter.
Most of all, though, I would enjoy being able to share my love as easily, simply, and unconditionally as my dogs do. Just a look from their big, brown eyes lets me know that I am loved. And when they throw in a smiling face, a happy pant, a wiggling body, and a wagging tail their peace, joy, and contentment become quite contagious. They cover my face with kisses, bring laughter to my lips, and swell my heart with happiness.
I know that God gave us dogs for a reason. Often we are too rushed, stressed, and concerned with the matters of this world. We are seeking to make a buck, to get ahead, or just to survive. And we forget that the most important thing in life is to just Live it: happily, completely, and lovingly. This is what our dogs teach us every single day. That is why I thank Our Heavenly Father so often for mine. May all of your days then be filled with the simple joy and pure peace that our furry friends have. And may you always give your love as freely as they give theirs.
