Day 935

“You have no idea what this means to me!”

We hear that comment almost every time the Therapy Dogs go on a visit! It is always heartfelt and sometimes accompanied by tears. For some of our friends (especially in senior living living venues) a brief encounter with a Golden visibly brightens their day and soothes their spirits.

When I hear that phrase, I tend to gloss over it by telling them that the pups love to visit, so the joy is mutual and move on to the next person. I believe I will abandon that response

and delve deeper into the popular reply.

A simple, “Might you share the reason you feel that way?” might be enough to honor their response. Of course, there might be a few who miss their dog or those who might like the soft fur. I do believe there are deeper reasons.

Loneliness, acknowledgment, or connection all might play a part in the importance of the meeting! It may just take some on a walk down “Memory Lane”. No matter the reason, I need to honor that phrase by opening my heart to the “why” of their deep feelings.

We all have an opportunity to open our own hearts to those who are touched by our presence. Whether we have a furry friend or not, really listening to those who are reaching out to us is a true privilege. Perhaps, after we listen, we can respond with, “You have no idea what this means to me…”