Day 734

Sammy does not understand boundaries! Luckily, Gus and Ranger seem to have infinite patience with our youngest...Lilly not so much. Although we correct our senior girl when she offers warning growls in the direction of Sammy, perhaps she is simply setting boundaries.

Throughout my lifetime, boundaries have been a challenge. Afraid of hurting someone's feelings or having a need for acceptance/belonging, I have been pretty much "boundaryless" on my journey.

Setting boundaries as a mother, teacher or dog handler has been a stretch, but seemingly successful for the most part. Understanding that those in my care benefit from setting expectations and limits is important.

However, I have never been successful with setting boundaries around myself. As I have "matured", it has been slightly easier, but still a work in progress. Knowing that there are just so many hours in the day AND embracing the fact that I am not as young as I used to be, I have made a few boundary changes...not many, but a few.

Boundaries set up around my heart have only happened once or twice. When a situation morphs into a dead end, it is challenging (but critical) to say, "It's OK to close a door now and then." Protecting your heart gives one more time and energy to focus on people and situations which are more life-giving. Then, you can spend time on the positive aspects of life.

Well, Lilly is growling at Sam again! Maybe I will walk over and let her know she has a right to growl! Sometimes, a little growl isn't such a bad thing!