I am a blended family mom with six kids. Yes, I have a real life Brady Bunch, in which the only person missing is Alice (who is needed the most). As I write this, I am on the verge of becoming a new mommy once again – a new fur baby mommy, that is, to a brood of puppies. I am not sure how much more chaotic life can get, but undoubtedly, I am about to find out. I ponder this thought as I peer down at my pregnant pooch, Heidi, a loving, gentle German Rottweiler, who, in fact, is really my seventh child. A member of our family through and through, Heidi throws tantrums, (digging in the backyard, dragging Kleenex out of the garbage and strewing it around the house) talks back, and doesn’t always follow the rules. Yet, she also offers innate life lessons – fundamental examples about the message of life – that our family should heed; invaluable teachings she will instinctively pass on to her pups, which should come naturally to us, her human family, but alas, do not always. So, in honor of Heidi’s impending motherhood and inherent wisdom, I pass on things we can all learn from our dog:
Take naps.
We live in a fast-paced society that doesn’t value the power of unplugging. Napping is heart healthy and helps your brain learn better. So, catch some Zzz’s to replenish. (And don’t forget, always stretch before rising.)
Run, rump, and play daily.
Life is too short not to play every day with the ones you love.
Sniff it out.
The first thing our furry friends do when they meet each other is sniff each other out for approval. Whether you are considering a new business deal, friend, or partner, don’t jump into any commitments without first doing your research and sniffing it out.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Our pooches know how to give love, and also how to receive it. Practice the art of learning to receive, which in turn, will make you a better giver.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
Use kindness and compassion as your guide, and don’t unnecessarily hurt people.
When someone is having a bad day, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
Dogs instinctively know when something is wrong, and so do we when it comes to someone in our family. Often times, showing our love and support is as simple as being nearby and offering actions on endearment.
Be loyal.
Heidi doesn’t complain to her friends when we do something wrong. When your brother or sister upsets you, don’t run off and complain about them either.
When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
When Heidi is happy to see you, or is excited about going for a walk, she doesn’t just wag her tail, she wags her whole body! Man, that is what happiness should look like! Don’t be afraid to express joy and shout your happiness from the rooftop!
Forgive.
No matter how often you are criticized, don’t dwell on your mistakes, and don’t hold a grudge. Like a dog, run right back and make friends, and start over.