When our three kids were growing up they each had a dog. Three kids and three dogs. The house was full to capacity with arms and legs and paws and tails.
We were walking over toys and clothes and snacks and socks and chewed up balls and bones constantly. Bob and I were constantly wiping, washing, changing, feeding, and watching over all of these lives. It was exhausting!
Then, in what seemed like a second, the children grew up and left and and their childhood pets safely crossed over the rainbow bridge under our care.
We have what I call a ‘retirement rescue’. The kids say she is spoiled. She has three beds, a photo monogrammed toy box, a dinner tray set up for her height and weight, and a monthly box that comes with a variety of toys and snacks. Bob and I supplement her Kibble with organic home made meals we prepare ahead and freeze. She has a fenced in backyard and has a play day each week.
Spoiled? Well cared for? Well loved?
What I have learned over the last 40 years is that the divine is in every living thing. Had I not had all these dogs to teach me and all of these children to guide me I might not know what true compassion is. I have surely been blessed beyond measure. I have received patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and such unconditional love from these precious lives that were with me for the briefest of moments now that I look back.
My goal now is to take what I have learned and apply it every day because I have been given so much.
~Lydia Patrick
You Have had such rich experiences, you have had Love and balance through the chapters of your life, and now, its the” pay it forward “or the whatever goes around , comes around. I have a deep respect for those that can see the bigger picture, in perspective , where every expression of love finds it way into the picture and gives a sense of closer , order, and purpose. Perspective is a sure fire way to see not only hindsight but also foresight. If you were born into scarcity/ broken by the need to fight for a presence in your world , you might have lived your life in a shadow. When I see how giving you are and how you are a conduit for love on multiple levels, I feel fortunate to know you , I feel fortunate to be in your circle.
Beautiful words, Lydia, from such a beautiful soul. Your reflection reminds me of what is important in life. I sometimes forget that in my day to day life.