Day 626
Our two "puppies" are best friends and their relationship continues to grow closer each and every day. There is only one reason that their camaraderie exists...Gus puts up with almost anything Sam dishes out!
If Gus has a toy, it becomes Sam's toy. When Gus jumps on the bed, Sam must be right where his brother plans to nest. If Gus is getting love from his humans, Sam nudges right in to get ALL the love. When they "play fight" (which looks absolutely vicious), Gus allows Sam the upper paw. This relationship seems to work for both of them, but we feel sorry for Gus-Gus. He is the sweetest, calmest boy and only wants to be accepted and loved. Sam is also sweet, but he likes to dominate! When our Gus finally has had enough, he will let his little brother know in no uncertain terms. Sam knows when to quit and take a back seat.
There have been a few relationships in my life where I played the part of Gus. As a younger sister, dealing with a few educators in my career and other "friendships" have probably worked because I, like Gus, allowed others to dominate while I played the part of a follower. Now, we all need to take a back seat now-and-then, but when you never get to drive...it could become a problem.
Each of us has gifts and talents that can be used to better the world. Be it in the workplace, the home or friendships throughout life, give-and-take seems to be essential to make a relationship thrive. It is when the "Sams" of the world don't EVER want to allow the "Gus figures" to participate without being dominated that resistance and frustrations grow and fester.
As maturity and hard-won wisdom grew through my life and hopefully took their place within, I find that playing the role of Gus isn't always in my best interest. Also, taking on the role of Sam only works when I can gently nurture others through an avenue to successful outcomes. Being either a Gus or a Sam ALL of the time doesn't work for me at all...or anyone else in my presence.
Advice from the dogs: Be a Sam when you need to, but also embrace the spirit of Gus when necessary. Be open to trading roles now-and-then. Like my boys, it seems to work out in the end.
