Day 487
Watching this boy grow and mature is a joy and a privilege.
The joy part has finally arrived after a few months of Zoomies, walking challenges and extreme energy. He still has his moments of unpredictable behavior, but his persona is rich and loving. He is simply amazing and oh so easy to love!
The privilege portion relates to the awesome responsibility and humbleness that comes with raising a Therapy Dog... any dog. I never take any of my pups for granted, but the training portion of our time together is full of decisions, hard work and bonding. Every second is worth the effort.
Always the responsible Pet Mama, the unpredictable parts of my Goldens can upset the apple cart. When Ranger decides to be stubborn and plops himself down in the Administrative Offices at Mercy, it can be a bit uncomfortable. Lilly tends to find the neediest person in a room and singles them out for her love and affection. I worry that some individuals might not enjoy the spotlight! Gus...she is our Steady Eddie!
People can be unpredictable at times. In my life, when that has happened, it has been most unsettling. We tend to pigeonhole loved ones, friends and acquaintances into anticipated roles. When they step out of those zones, the result can be rather intimidating. Perhaps our most predictable individuals are the ones we know the best and are the most loved.
There have been only a few times in my life when I have presented in an unpredictable manner. Those events were never very productive. As maturity embraces me, it seems I become more and more predictable. That might be a good thing as people ask for "wisdom" from those of us with graying hair. There is comfort and trust in predictability.
Sammy, although still prone to "crazy moments," continues on the path to predictability. With that emerging demeanor, it seems he is easier to adore. Just like the people in our world, it seems to be easier to trust and love those whose predictability becomes our safe harbor where we can let our guard down. Sam is almost there but, when he gets the "Zoomies," I am still going to get out of his way!
