Day 731

It is hard for me to believe that today marks the two-year mark of "Walking With Goldens." When I began writing, I never imagined it would turn into a daily blog...it just seemed selfish to NOT share all the wonderful experiences at the other end of the leash. As always, The Goldens are the impetus for every story.

Looking back, I began to think about the lessons I have learned on this journey. Here are a few of the ones that have changed me in so many ways:

*Gratitude: It seems I have always had a huge amount of gratitude for life and all of the gifts surrounding me. However, I have learned to be grateful for the deep relationships formed when my Goldens work their magic. Sitting with some of our senior citizens, and sharing life stories, has allowed me to form bonds that would never have been possible without my dogs at our feet. There is an aura around those pups that invites a deep camaraderie for which I am truly grateful.

*Compassion: To share moments of sadness, joy, fear, need and empathy with strangers and friends deepens the ability to actually feel someone's emotions. With those Goldens at hand, people open up and share beyond basic facts. Countless times, while petting those big, brown heads, tears begin to flow and truths are shared.

Humility: To be present and welcomed into the lives of so many people is humbling. Their appreciation for our time and presence seems to be overwhelming at times. Learning to accept others' gratitude has been a challenge, but the Goldens are truly the magical element in every visit.

Honesty: Being honest has always been one of my beliefs. However, the honesty found in our visits tend to be deeper and more personal. Striving to share only honest thoughts and emotions with others has helped make me more insightful and accepting of myself in a strange way. There are no facades.

Service: To spend time on "Therapy Dogging" is a joy. Although I could fill my days with other activities, volunteering brings such meaning to my life. When I return with a Golden by my side, every visit has enriched my heart and I feel hopeful that we have made a few people's day a little brighter.

Sharing our adventures is just a way to bring a smile or warm the heart of a reader. After all, that's why we Therapy Dog in the first place!