My dog Sammy died this summer. Having tended her lovingly for over a decade, she rewarded me with loyalty, companionship, and unconditional affection. I was soooo sad to lose her. She was sweet and cheerful, far more accepting, loving, and joyful than anyone I know. Her natural inclinations taught me simple ways to enjoy primitive pleasures and strengthen social ties.
Here is a recipe for happiness someone gave me years ago (author is unknown to me). In memory of Sammy, I share it with you.
How to Live Like A Dog
1) Never pass up an opportunity to go for a joy ride.
2) Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind on your face to be pure ecstasy.
3) Always run to greet loved ones when they come home.
4) When it is in your best interest, always practice obedience.
5) Let others know when they have invaded your territory.
6) Take naps and always stretch before rising.
7) Run, romp, and play daily.
8) Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
9) Be loyal.
10) Never pretend to be something you are not.
11) If you want what lies buried: dig until you find it.
12) When someone is having a bad day; be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
13) Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
14) Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
15) Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
16) On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
17) When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
18) No matter if you are criticized or hurt, don't pout or be proud for long - run right back and be friends as soon as possible.
When translating this advice to your life, I have some suggestions:
- Don't let rigid notions of "appropriateness", embarrassment, or laziness interfere with indulging in harmless thrills.
- Take care of your body and use it: dance, play, sleep, stretch, nap, have sex, walk a lot, and drink plenty of liquids.
- Make it a point to show your love freely, especially around times of transitions. Greetings and goodbyes are both especially meaningful to people and it helps to make an effort.
- Pay attention to your own boundaries, taking notice when you feel crowded. depleted, or ovewhelmed.
- If someone routinely asks or takes too much of anything -- whether of your time, space, money, or energy -- tell them to back off.
- Ask people to back off nicely when your first notice them intruding, rather than waiting until you get really angry.
I love this!! Sammy has inspired you. I sent this to all my friend. Great advice!
Posted by: Sarah | 09/28/2011 at 08:10 PM
Cindy, so sorry for losing Sammy, she does look as if she was the sweetest thing. I believe pets also give our lives structure, their needs become our soothing habits. They sweetly and softly gentle our days. Love your happiness recipe, I'm printing it.
Take good care. Pat Keller
Posted by: pat keller | 09/20/2011 at 08:16 AM
It is amazing they can teach/remind us to cherish life and little plesures in it even when they are gone.
Posted by: mela | 09/19/2011 at 12:37 AM
Perfecto! esa es la simple y honesta vida que me gusta!
Posted by: Alice | 09/14/2011 at 06:25 AM
I loved this!!
Posted by: Robin Cohen | 09/14/2011 at 12:08 AM