Day 772

Sometimes I watch my Golden pups playing and realize that they could harm each other if they chose to. Taking that a step further, they could use those teeth to harm their humans!!! Their gentle natures and genuine devotion to us overrides that thought...we trust them beyond measure.

Having all four Goldens since puppyhood, we spent copious amounts of time teaching, guiding and loving them. Of course, we suffered "puppy piranha" injuries (for Gus, we actually purchased falconer's gloves!), but there was never any malice on their part. Trust was built over time with consistent love throughout their first years. That trust is now returned to us and our mutual trust is a treasure.

Humans aren't that different. We build trust between family members and friends during our journey. Of course, there will sometimes be a breach in trust when someone makes a mistake, but forgiveness is easily offered when the trust runs deep. What a wonderful element in any relationship. It takes time and a conscious effort to choose honesty and love for the other person, but a trusted group of loved ones is the gift at the end of the day.

If I could personify trust, it would be a compilation of loved ones past and present who had their hearts and arms open wide with a hug of safety. It is good to find that safe harbor in life's ups and downs. For me, some of those "harbors" have four legs!