Dublin's been with us for about a month now I think. At first he pulled on Elway's ears, chewed his head, grabbed onto the collar and tried to drag him around the room. He was relentless in his effort to become Best Friends right this minute, not realizing Elway found it all a bit much. Friendship between a 7 month old and a gentle, semi-worn-out 8 year old is a delicate dance. One wants to do the Cha Cha or Rumba, the other is more interested in a slow Waltz. Dublin is sooooooooooo excited to become best friends right now, this minute, all day long, every second, can we please please please play some more, can we can we can we???!!! Elway is generally more interested in spending time on the deck together, soaking in the sun and watching the squirrels gather nuts.


Things are a bit more settled now. Dublin has learned he can chew on ears and head, but gently. He can grab the collar, but the tug-o-war has to be fun for both of them. And the 'please be my girlfriend' stuff had to stop entirely! I think they've settled on a Two-Step. Compromise. The dance of friendship between animals - interesting to watch. Comparing it to how we humans go about it is certainly food for thought, especially in light of the week I've had. Gentle, slow, mutual - it works better for both species. Some of God's best lessons might be learned through time spent with those having more than two legs, if we just pay attention. You want to learn about good leadership, just watch a flock of geese flying south for the winter. Parenting - watch a mother deer with three fawns, and the dad is nowhere around.

What does the cat think about all this? The jury's still out on that one. Hissing continues from the recesses of the basement. She's taking time making her decision. When in doubt, go slow. Another lesson offered up.

Great stuff, thanks God.

Labels: Glimpse of the Heart