(#38) The Story Of The Horse

I need your input. About a horse. Really, about me and the horse. Here’s the backstory.

Steve and I visited a big building last week. A very big building. It appears a human had hurt another human and the other humans were sad about what happened. So a few of my pet therapy canine friends went to the big building to spread some cheer. It was good to see Lulu, Jules, and Bear. Hadn’t seen them in a long, long time. And I met some new pups. We all did what we do best: let people love on us. I felt like I had earned my biscuits by time we left each day.

The last night, as we finished our rounds, Steve and I stopped to see a small group of humans. And that’s where I saw it. The horse. Not a big one, more like what humans call a pony. But, still, bigger than any of my canine friends.  I pulled at the leash and had my snout out as far as it would go; sniffing and trying to learn something about him. He just stood there with his person, all quiet and composed. What did I do? I started barking. That’s right, woofing. Like one of those obnoxious canines we pass on the way to the beach in the morning. I was embarrassed but could not stop myself.

It reminded me of my reaction to those people on top of the boards on top of the wheels. Buck—that’s the horse’s name—did not do anything to me. He was not mean. Seemed to be a pretty cool being. No bluster. Just there for people to love on him. I have never barked at another canine when we meet. Don’t understand it. Maybe I was scared.  Or maybe I did not understand something so different from what I was used to. I don’t like how I felt or acted.  Steve is helping me learn to fear less and co-exist.  I’m a work in progress.

This is where I’d appreciate you woofing back at me.

Consider something or someone you fear. How do you react to this thing, person, place, or issue? Do you like how fear makes you feel and behave? What have you done to learn to co-exist with someone or something that creates an uneasy feeling for you? Has this made you a better being?

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Thank you for sharing my blog with your friends.

In my new book, Roxie Looks for Purpose Beyond the Biscuit, I share stories and lessons about friends, family, and fun. And I speak about purpose as well.  (Steve says for dogs we might just want to call it “furpose.” He makes words up, I think.) Perhaps the book holds a biscuit or two for you!

WOOF!