This is a wonderful reminder.

A Dog's Purpose, (from a 4-year-old)


Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish
Wolfhound named Belker.  The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their
Little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping
For a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we
Couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia
Procedure for the old dog in their home.  As we made arrangements, Ron and
Lisa told me they thought it would be good for four-year-old Shane to
Observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from
The experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's Family
Surrounded him.  Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time
That I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes,
Belker slipped peacefully away. The little boy se emed to accept Belker's
Transition without any difficulty or confusion.

We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the
Sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been
Listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me.
I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. He said, "People are born so
That  they can learn how to live a good life like loving everybody all the
Time and being nice, right?" Then the four-year-old continued, "Well, dogs
Already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."


Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn stuff like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportu nity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the WI ND in your face to be pure
Ecstasy.

 Take naps.

 Stretch before rising.

 Run, romp, and play daily.

 Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

 Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

 On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

 On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

 When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body

 Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

 Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

 Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.

 If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.