Day 1064

Ranger and I had the pleasure of reading with first graders at Lincoln Elementary School for the Arts this morning. I am never amazed, but always slightly surprised when staff and students know his name and circle for a quick connection with our “Golden Oldie.” More than one staff member melted to the floor and seemed to leave with less stress after their encounter. Ranger takes it all in stride!

As I watched from the other end of the leash, I realized something profound. When Ranger placed his paw on an arm, looked deeply into someone’s eyes, rolled over to place his big head in a lap or was simply close, he was making the world a better place. By connecting in his “Ranger Way,” he was warming hearts, lowering stress and showing unconditional acceptance without one word. He was simply ‘there’ and the magic happened.

My “Aha Moment” was the realization that we don’t have to do anything ostentatious, offer huge gifts or even say a word! We can touch a life with a smile, a gentle hand on the shoulder or sharing our complete attention to someone’s story. It is so simple and costs nothing.

Ranger has known this truth for years!