[Faith-talk] If a Dog Were Your Teacher

[Paul Smith]

This one is for all dog lovers and service animal users.

You would learn stuff like this:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.  Never pass up the 
opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.

Let others know when they've invaded your territory.

Take naps and 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 lay under a shady tree.

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

No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and 
pout--run right back and make friends.

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.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle 
them gently.

Hey, maybe if a neighbor's dog would be my teacher I'd be writing this 
in canine language, and if someone called me on the phone I'd talk in 
canine mannerisms.  Aren't you glad I don't do that?

And that will do it for now.  Don't forget that tomorrow there will be 
yet another post from Tim Smith and the Museum of the Bible in 
Washington, DC.  Until then may the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob 
just keep us safe, individually and collectively, in these last days in 
which we live.  Your Christian friend and brother, Paul