Dear diary,
I’m back on this sunny day, feeling like sharing some thoughts about life. A sea of emotion fills the human heart, so powerful and large that sometimes it feels difficult to keep them inside. When I struggle, in the early moments, it is not easy to see anything other than the obstacle in front of me. With time and practice, noticing all the beautiful parts of life, thinking about them and feeling them can help to balance the boat.
On that note, I am going to create a series of living in the moment entries. These will be reflections on appreciation and the thoughts and feelings of gratitude and love that surface for me in my little life. Some big things but smaller ones too. A collection for myself to read and look back on and to share for anyone who wants to read or relate.
Today I’ll start off with my newest little big love – my puppy, Reggie. He’s been with us for only about 4 months, but just like each of my cats, he already has a piece of my heart in his paws.
I have to say, a dog’s love and companionship is different than with a cat. Not more or less, but different, in my opinion. I find myself doing things I wouldn’t consider doing without him. Like going for a big walk in the rain. I just wouldn’t really do that otherwise. But with him, it is not the cold or wet I think about. It is the bond of spending that time together, doing something that isn’t much on its own, but exceptional because we are sharing it and that’s what makes it beautiful. The walking is super cool and during these warm months, my love for the early morning is highlighted in a new way. We walk through the morning dew, look at the sun coming up and he sniffs out every bunny and squirrel in our immediate vicinity. The air is fresh and the scent of a new day always lifts my heart and sets a positive tone filled with possibility.
My little doggie looks to me to know what to do and anywhere I am in the house, he always wants to be close by. It is a completely innocent and endearing way that dogs have about them. They pick you as much as you pick them and it is something very special and loving that I am currently thoroughly enjoying.
Anyone who has one knows, there is lots of work to do with a dog too. The house training and general obedience training take time and effort. At first, that part felt a bit overwhelming for me. It’s a real commitment. But with time, it has become easier as the bond between us grows deeper. He loves our family and creates silly excitement with the cats. When the novelty wore off, it’s the love and devotion that keeps everything continuing on effortlessly.
The main lessons for me were again, that time and effort are what is needed for something truly special to take root and flourish into all the beauty and magnificence meant to be and this one comes with the powerful feeling of bursting love. Right now, I am living in the moment with how my little doggie has expanded my heart further and helped me grow my resilience and patience. I am grateful for this life and this moment in time.
Talk to you soon,
Lisa xo
My So-Called Yoga Life 