Day 350
We had a "romping" good walk this morning and now they are all tuckered out! Sam went first, followed by Gus and then the seniors finally got their turn. We all love to take our walks together!
Today was garbage/recycle pick up day. The trucks were rumbling down every street we took. Sammy watched the trucks with a wary eye, but continued on his forward course. I also watched those trucks with respect and kept our distance.
Using that sense of sight more than usual, I glanced at the next pair of buckets on our journey. The garbage bin was piled high to overflowing and there were a couple of clear bags encasing the family's discards tucked in at eye level.
I glanced at the house and wondered about the unkept yard, peeling paint on the home and items strewn around the lawn. I actually had a brief judgmental thought pondering how the owners of this home could let things get to this point. It was then that my eyes landed on a clue that humbled me and slowed my steps.
Just before the long arm of the garbage truck reached over to grab and empty the content of the bucket, I saw another piece of the story. Within the topmost bag, rested a lone hospital sock...the red kind with anti-slip strips across the bottom. Talk about shame...
I was ashamed at myself for judging without any thought towards other possibilities, empathy, understanding or an opening mind for an explanation for the state of this residence. Was someone recuperating? Could it be there had been a loss in the family and the sock was a clue to items left behind? It could mean anything, but it took that sock to slow my walk and send warm thoughts and love into the house.
The lesson for me is to try to "see" each situation without judging, but with a heart full of love and empathy. Not an easy goal, but certainly worth the effort.
My Goldens never judge situations or individuals...unless it has something to do with treats or dog-loving people. They accept everyone and are ready to share the love. Once again, I will try to be more like my dogs. Perhaps, I need to embrace the idea of walking in someone else's shoes...or hospital socks. It might just make me a better human.
