just_another_nic: blog 
nics automotive blog
all i needed to know about life....
Published Nov. 6, 2009Views: 330
....I learned from my dog.....or
....I learned in kindergarden......etc. etc. etc....
I know we've all heard or seen the many different variations of this little life's lesson plan presented in the simplest of terms and many times as though through the eyes of a child. Colorful and full of little hints on what it takes to be a better person.
Simple and direct, in most cases the message is the same, be kind, don't steal, and share what you have....
I've traveled roughly 10,000 miles in the last 6 to 7 weeks, most of the time in silence, pre-occupied with the many thoughts that dance around in the head of a fellow determined still in the pursuit of his independence.
I did occassionally listen to a book on CD, or play some of my MP3 list, but for the most part the time was spent in quiet thought and reflection.
On deeds of the past, things in the present, and what to make of the future. All reflecting in a different light, co-mingled and pretty much twirling like the winds of a tornado.....
As I observed my travel companion, young Grinder, barely one year old himself, it is interesting to recognize that as "man's best friend", there are indeed many things I can learn from him.
I have learned that he has all the traits we would likely desire in a friend, non-judgemental, fiercely loyal, and playful beyond measure.
There is also another trait, one not taught, but one engrained in his very nature. That of protector. It is obvious that as a dog, he has come to recognize his space, his territory, and has proven that he would likely fight tooth and claw with anyone attempting to circumvent, harm, or otherwise attempt to encroach on that which he considers his.
Not very different from us really. We are loyal, we are playful, but I won't touch on the judgement part...because....after all....we are only human.
However, we are also fiercely protective of what is ours whether it be our loved ones, our possessions, or even our opinions.
Tooth and nail we will dig in an fight to the finish for that which we believe in.
Or will we?
Have we become desensitized to our passions? Such that we will quietly stir with anger, frustration, and contempt, yet sit passively as the very things that encroach on us overtake us to the point of submission.
I watch my dog, defiant at times, submissive at others, but never ever does he cower. Never willing to hide his feelings when he feels threatened. He will confront you, he will express himself openly, and if you chose to breach his trust, he will bite you..... all without the aid of a handbook, or set of guidelines....but a natural instinct to guard himself and those he loves....
Today marks no special day in particular. Just another filled with struggles. Another to decide what's right and what's wrong. And another to continue the good fight.
As for Grinder, another to love, to laugh (dogs do), and be playful beyond measure... but never once to decide wether to fight or retreat. It's not in his nature to retreat.....he is after all, just a dog.....
Filed under: Family
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