Day 18

5/29/22
Storms! Thunder, lightning and wind! Our three goldens do not approve of such things.

Our first beloved golden, Arthur, was terrified of thunderstorms! He was our "Early Storm Warning System" for any approaching severe weather. All of a sudden, all 104 pounds of shivering fur was launched onto the bed he would proceed to bury his extra-large head under the nearest pillow! We would hold him until the storm subsided. Long nights...

Fast forward to today when we were on the beach and there was a distant echo of thunder. All three goldens stopped in their tracks and looked to the west. Gus lost interest and started chasing a leaf across the sand while Lilly and Ranger continued to gaze uneasily at the clouds. Another clap of thunder sent all three scurrying my way!

We all fled towards the cabin. Gus even joined in what he deemed the best game of the day. Inside, they all gathered at our feet and settled down slightly until after the storm had passed.

Fear is an amazing force. It can hinder or accelerate actions in a split second. In one of my books, "Becoming Brave," I tried to help young readers embrace fear as a friend. Ollie, the teddy bear, tells Gus (Yes, our Gus) that being afraid of thunder helps avoid the lightning...keeping us safe. So many fears are there to help us avoid danger when we really analyze them. I wish I could convince the goldens to embrace that philosophy! Not today!

When I feel fear, or that little voice whispers or screams "Better think twice about that," I pause, make a choice and realize I am keeping myself safe. Now about those rollerblades that I want to strap on...