When you think of the word Dog, what are a few thoughts that first come to mind?
A tail wagging. Bundles of joy running around. Happiness.
Dogs are pretty much angels living on earth. Their personalities and positive energy are contagious, and they always seem to put a smile on peoples faces.
When I take my dog with me to places where other people will be, there’s something about a dog that organically opens people up, influences their behavior in a positive way and makes them feel good both internally and externally.
We all know the positives of owning a dog, or even just crossing paths with one and petting it.
But have you ever deeply reflected on the natural ways that dogs live their lives?
On occasion, I try to really study my pup and her reactions and emotions.
What I’ve discovered and truly believe is that dogs have life figured out. Their limited intellect might prevent them from being able to actually realize that they possess the secrets to happiness (how could we ever know if a dog has a conscience or not?), but they certainly and instinctively are experts on how to live a fulfilled life.
Whether it be constantly living in the present moment without having regrets about the past or stresses about the future, loving unconditionally or not taking anything for granted, humans can certainly learn a thing or two from a dog’s way of life.
Could this be why they only live for so long? Is it possible that dogs average out to live for just 10-13 years because they are born with what every human goes their entire life searching and yearning for?
Maybe it’s time we look at things from another perspective. Maybe it’s time we let our dogs teach us something for once.
The next time you’re around a dog (or your own) take notice of its current behavior and how it produces an infectious positive energy into the atmosphere. Try to understand it, harness it and bring it to existence from within yourself throughout your journey of life.
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself” -Josh Billings