The greatest gift a dog can teach their master is the true meaning of compassion. An animal that lives every day to be with you, finds joy in the simplest things you provide, and trusts your every intention is filled with nothing but love for them.
Occasionally, I hear on the media people performing 'random acts of kindness'. Although I welcome any type of good news in our world, I wish people would give a higher priority to showing compassion. A behavior that eliminates a greed to expect anything in return; no thank you, public recognition, or request to pay it forward.
Compassion to others is displayed when one goes beyond the feeling of empathy. Not only do we feel the pain someone is experiencing, but we have a desire to alleviate their suffering. Pets appear to have an instinct of when someone is hurting; the paw that gently pushes on your cheek, the lick on your leg, or the squeaky toy in their mouth that makes you smile- all makes their master ask, 'How did you know I needed that?'
When do we discover the lesson has been learned? When we would rather feel sorrow & heartache, than watch someone suffer a moment longer. When we put aside our own greed for happiness & comfort, and do what is best for someone else. People often ask, how do you know when to say good-bye to your pet? When your compassion for their joy overrides the greed of your own emotions wanting them to stay.
Live... Laugh... Love...Everything Great and Small. To show compassion for one, you must show compassion for all.
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