Day 606

Today, Miss Lilly and I went for a visit at our newest venue. After having some lovely time with our friends in Memory Care, we were introduced to one of the "fix-it guys" at the center. Lilly immediately connected and a bond was formed. For about ten minutes, our new buddy (Alex) sat on the floor and loved our girl. Watching them, my heart melted as an immediate trust was formed. They both knew there was nothing to fear.

Trust is a funny thing. It takes FOREVER to truly believe in someone and it can disintegrate in a moment. It has been my privilege to believe in those close to my heart without any doubt of losing that feeling of safety and love. There was a time, in the past, where I learned a lesson or two about trust and now honor my "gut feelings" before letting someone get too close.

Working hard to build trust with the dogs in my life has been a joy. My Goldens seem to have such blind faith in their human family members and that humbles my heart. With dogs, if that trust is broken, they seem to place our mistake in the past and move on with those beautiful hearts. If that could only be the way with humans!

Being consistent, honest, loving and attentive are all vital to building the trust of those around us. Whether two-legged or four-legged, much can be accomplished if we do not falter from those goals. If my Therapy Dogs didn't trust me implicitly, our visits would be disastrous. If there was inconsistency, dishonesty, cruelty or dismissive behavior with my two-legged loved ones, it would take some time before trust was built once again.

Striving to be the kind of person who others can trust is a goal in my life. Of course, there will be misunderstandings and disagreements, but, with a foundation of trust, problems can be fixed and addressed.

So...being consistent, honest, loving and attentive seem to be the keys to building trust with those around us. It occurs to me that my Goldens, and dogs everywhere, come to earth with those qualities already in place.