Simple Lesson
“A dog has no use for fancy cars or big homes or designer clothes. Status symbol means nothing to him. A waterlogged stick will do just fine. A dog judges others not by their color or creed or class but by who they are inside. A dog doesn’t care if you are rich or poor, educated or illiterate, clever or dull. Give him your heart and he will give you his. (How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary?) It was really quite simple, and yet we humans, so much wiser and more sophisticated, have always had trouble figuring out what really counts and what does not. As I wrote that farewell column to Marley, I realized it was all right there in front of us, if only we opened our eyes. Sometimes it took a dog with bad breath, worse manners, and pure intentions to help us see.”
— John Grogan
I just watched “Marley and Me” for the first time tonight and was drawn in by the quote above. Isn’t it sad that we get so caught up in what society tells us is acceptable, trendy, or normal that we are blinded by our own judgements? Today I went to two family functions, one on my side and the other on Pete’s. They were two polarized experiences. I felt completely wanted and accepted at one while the other one felt slightly distant and impersonal. Maybe it was my perception but I hope that our family will always be one where people feel loved, welcome and will want to stay to play games, talk, and spend time with one another.
I have been ruminating the last few days about relationships. Whether it be acquaintances, friends, family, or significant others we all hunger for human connection. Since lacking communication with Pete I have turned to other sources to fill the void of daily bonding. I have cried at blog accounts of personal loss, tried to set up “lunch dates” with people I haven’t seen in a while, even started some sewing and quilting projects so I could spend time with people who are talented in that area. The more I search for external love, support and validation the more I am drawn to Pete’s strengths.
I have often lamented the fact that I don’t have a so-called “best friend.” Someone to call when you just need to vent, someone who laughs at your random idiosyncrasies, a shoulder to cry on for hard days, a person that will kick your butt for not meeting your gym goal of the week but encourages you to do better, or someone who simply drops by to say hi. Growing up I was practically “tied at the hip” with one friend or another. I even remember being frustrated that my high school bff dating someone took time away from me. But things changed, and since high school I missed having that friend. It wasn’t until this week that I realized that I have had that companionship for the last three years, I really did marry my best friend. Sorry for the extra side of cheese, but I find it slightly ironic that Pete had to leave for a long period of time in order for me to see clearly. I do have some amazing friends who are there when I need them but no one can really take the place of my husband. So until I get my real bff back I will continue to develop my other relationships.
Read more here:
Simple Lesson
Comments