The strangest part about this teaching he does (strange to me because I'm a writer and teacher and am constantly surrounded by words) is that Teddy never says a word about kindness. He simply does kindness.
Now, I realize not everyone is a dog-lover. Some of you may even have had scary encounters with dogs who snarl, bark and bite. I've had those too. But if you could meet my Teddy, he would change your mind. I know he would.
Because Teddy would meet you at the door each night after work, even if he was busy doing something else when you arrived home. He would lay his head in your lap just because he wants to. He would nap wherever you sit just so he can be close to you. He would get up early if you had to. He would stay up late if you did. He would walk or run with you, everyday, so you can stay healthy. He would be your friend for always.
And he does it all because he doesn't know any other way. Kindness is just what he does. Maybe the reason I learn so much from Teddy is because he doesn't talk; he doesn't use words. Maybe I'm surrounded by too many words sometimes, both those spoken and those written, so kindness speaks most to me when kindness just . . . does.
Love the picture of Teddy. We'll be getting our first dog soon and I'll be looking to learn kindness from him/her.
ReplyDeleteI'm a total dog person (even if I also have a cat). My dog is the sweetest little thing. Unless you're a stranger, then she's one of those snarling, barking things, but she's just trying to protect me, so I forgive her.
ReplyDeleteI love that, Barbara--kindness just does. It's a perfect way to summarize kindness. It's an action, not a declaration.
ReplyDeleteYour dog is just precious, by the way. I think in general dogs tend to be pretty loyal and loving, but goldens are such good natured dogs especially. I have a feeling you learn a lot from him.
I don't have a dog...almost makes me wish for one...almost!
ReplyDeleteDogs - nothing like them. We could certainly learn a lot - if only we were to open our eyes and close our mouths more often.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post.
I have one of those amazingly kind Golden Retrievers. And you are so right, kindness is all she knows. She loves everyone and is kind, no matter what. What a great, fun post. Give Teddy a pat from me :)
ReplyDeleteWish I could meet Teddy, Barbara :-) I'm one of those who's been dealing with snarling dogs on my walks lately and I'd sure like to meet a friendlier one! More than that, tho, is your point about "kindness just does." Words well worth internalizing in our lives, that's for sure.
ReplyDeleteTeddy is kind? He's a manipulator! He's got you wrapped around his little paw. Aw...just kidding. And I want a dog like Teddy. In the next few months, I'm going to be buying a dog. Don't know what kind though, cause I need one who'll be able to fend for himself in the jungle with all the other wild critters. I may just go to the shelter and rescue one.
ReplyDeleteWe are made up our actions.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy you have a friend like that.
Kindness is all action and no words needed indeed. I would love to meet your Teddy one day.
ReplyDeleteLucky you and lucky Teddy.
ReplyDeleteTeddy shows the ultimate kindness - when words aren't necessary or even asked for in return. How wonderful it must be to have him in your life!
ReplyDeleteDogs are so precious. Kindness most definitely seems to be ingrained in their personalities!
ReplyDeleteWe had a collie like that when I was a child, and I loved her very much. I'm glad you have your Teddy.
ReplyDeleteOh he reminds me of the wonderful dog Daisy in the MG book Wonder - just finished it and am still sniffling. The little boy in Wonder has major facial deformities that make school or meeting anyone new a nightmare. He defines kindness by his dog Daisy, who loves him no matter what he looks like.
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