Day 623

Today was an interesting day to be out in public with the Goldens. It was gorgeous weather for the pups and their Mama, so we walked and walked. As people would approach, I would forget the condition of my black eyes and cheeks for a moment. When encountering folks, they would basically recoil and show so much sympathy as our chat went on. It made me think about injuries that are visible and those that are hidden.

When we go on our Therapy Dog visits, I immediately see the outer person while my dogs see the inner one. Dogs do not seem to recognize different facial issues, disabilities or any other characteristic that is evident to me. Today, I was reminded how important it is to look beyond the outer shell of people when you first meet them.

We have visited people who are hooked up to machines, crying, visibly anxious, injured, in wheelchairs and any other visible issue that meets my eye. For me, it is a window into their needs and challenges...for my Goldens, they are just another person to minister to. The pups don't seem to notice any "out-of-the-ordinary" trait or issue when meeting people for the first time. That is a beautiful thing in my eyes.

Since they are unaware of visual disabilities or angst, they look within the person to see if they can help. Whereas I need to build some background and trust on visits, the dogs simply go right to the source and begin to minister to needs.

So often people can hide their fear, sadness, disability or needs with bravado, humor or a quiet stance. Where I might walk by a patient or resident who looks just fine, my dogs often stop to investigate...as if they can sense something more. They are always right! When they stop and pay attention to someone who looks just fine, my senses go into high alert while I spend time with them. Often, with their hand gently petting one of the Goldens, they open up about something that needs to be shared. Those are "Golden Moments," as they discover someone cares.

As for my bruised face, that will subside soon. However, the memories of my interactions regarding my obvious injury will linger as I look more diligently for people who show no outward signs of need. Perhaps my Goldens will be my guides in this endeavor. As always, I learn so much at the other end of the leash.