I feel deeply and am very passionate. I often ask, why does it have to be this way? Why can't we do better? Well, let's just change it, make it happen. As I grow older and wiser, I have come to the realization that some times, most times, things just take... time. People often grow and change and gain wisdom by experience. Some of the most beautiful works of art, music, writings, and poems have been born out of great struggle. I realize I have learned and grown the most as a trainer through experiences with very difficult dogs. They often grow into exceptionally well behaved dogs, with time, miles and patience.
I suppose all along I possessed understanding, at least subconsciously, about "the journey". I talk about "the journey" all the time. The name of my blog, my business and my training theory involves this journey in word and deed. A journey takes time, can be daunting, involve ups and downs, mountains to climb but it also brings about great beauty, confidence, understanding and dare I say wisdom.
As I think about all I have seen and heard here in New Orleans I have had an epiphany. Instead of being sad about what I am seeing, viewing as a pity or a tragedy, I suddenly realized I can only change me and how I respond to the pain, the struggle and the beauty.
I decided to embrace the moment, realize that I am only seeing a part of a person's journey, a part of their story. Things can change for the better. We've all heard and read about miraculous stories. I have witnessed first hand the goodness of people. I have hope and trust in the One who gave us all a unique race to run. It's not for me to say how things should be or to make judgements (oh, my this has taken me far too long to learn), only to offer a smile, a prayer and lend a helping hand when, where and IF needed.
I started to view things differently and became overwhelmingly thankful by what I was witnessing. Amazing musicians sharing their art, artists proudly displaying their works on the street, working mules and their people lovingly sharing their city and oh, the very, very many sweet dogs doing what they do best and that is loving their humans unconditionally. The dogs are a very obvious bright spot and companion to their people in all types of conditions and circumstances. Amazing...really truly....amazing!
I have had a wonderful journey here in New Orleans, I feel blessed to be a witness to it all. Life is beautiful!
I feel a renewed sense of excitement to return to what I do... for the sheer privilege of speaking into the lives of my students and their dogs. Each one on their own journey of growing in communication, building understanding and relationship with their dogs.
I am truly blessed to be a witness!
