Day 792

This is the face of a Stubborn Boy! Today, at Mercy Hospital, he made a few decisions all by himself.

Decision #1: “I am going to sit down in Administration and refuse to move until I am offered MORE treats!”

Decision #2: “I will sit by the treat jar in the Volunfeer Office and give Mommy ‘The Look’ until I get my second treat!”

Decision #3: “Nobody, NOBODY can make me take those stairs!

Decision #4: “I WILL NOT jump into that car without a few treats thrown in ahead of me!”

Most of his antics are greeted with gales of laughter and delight. His stubborn streak grows exponentially!

The other part of this duo is not as amused by Ranger’s obstinance. He is lucky he’s cute!

His behavior made me examine my own level of stubbornness. I know there is a part of me that finally puts a foot (or two) down when it comes to relenting, but it is usually for good reason!

It seems there are two ways to look at the word “stubborn." One has a negative vibe while the other might just be a good thing!

Being UNYIELDING would be the negative part of the definition. To have a lack of ability to bend and compromise is not good for relationships, others in a group or the individual who won’t concede an inch. In this situation, nobody really wins…even though it might look that way. Without a compromise and give-and-take, relationships suffer.

Now being TENACIOUS can be a positive force. If someone has the energy and drive to complete a goal, things get done! Having the initiative to push forward can certainly be an admirable quality!

Hopefully I am more tenacious than unyielding. That is a goal of mine. Ranger, on the other paw, is just plain stubborn and I couldn’t love him more!