It's nearly impossible for me not to go in full Melting Heart Mode when a cute puppy video pops up on my social media feed. I may or may not be overwhelming obsessed with big balls of fur with four legs. The utter cute-ness of dogs astonishes me, but that's not what really draws me to the perfect puppers. Though they are a wonderful sight for sore eyes, it's what is beneath the coat of fur that compels me to feel such a strong connection with them. I, for the past few months, have started to raise a puppy (okay, he's four, but that's still a puppy in my eyes) of my own. In these past few months, my sidekick and now best friend, Zeus, has finally put into perspective the lessons that my mom has tried to drill into my head for years.

1. Always see the best in people.

It's no secret that dogs can see a person's soul. All it takes is one look in their oversized eyes and they have all insight into your personality. But somehow, they look right past all of the bad, and find the qualities that make you a good person. Their unadulterated innocence allows them to look, deep, into what really makes you, you. Zeus never sees how awkward I can be. He never judges me for saying dumb things. Zeus sees past all my flaws, right into my heart. He inspires me to do the same, every day.

2. Put others first.

You don't have to be completely selfless, but it's important to understand that the needs of others can outweigh your own needs. It may seem insignificant, but even if I'm starving, I always give Zeus the last corner of my sandwich. It's worth it to see him so happy. The happiness is contagious, and it makes me want to spread the joy.

3. Love unconditionally.

No matter what you do to them, they will always have love for you. Sometimes, I get really mad at Zeus for pooping in my floor. He still loves me when I yell at him, and I still love him when he knows he's wrong. Giving your whole heart to someone, or something, is a scary feeling. The feeling of vulnerability is what makes it so much more than just loving a pet. It may seem stupid to some, but opening my heart to Zeus and watching him open his to me, has allowed me to be more brave when opening my heart to others.

4. Be responsible.

Having a dog is almost like having a child. You have to keep their bellies full, fur clean, bladder empty, and hearts happy. My mom tried to teach me for years the importance of responsibility, but it always went right over my head. That was, until Zeus came into my life. I may not keep my room clean every day...okay, fine, every week, but I have learned to prioritize the important things in life.

5. You're never alone.

This is the most important lesson that my furry best friend has taught me. No matter what, Zeus is always there for me, and I am always there for him. When I'm crying about the insane amount of homework that I'm putting off, he curls up next to me and rests his head on my lap. It's the little things that show me how much he cares. Because of that, I will always try, to the best of my ability, to pass the kindness on. No one should ever feel like they have no one to lean on. No one ever will, especially if they have a sidekick as perfect as mine.

I don't know what we did to deserve them, but never let your pupper forget how important he or she is to you. Though some people see dogs as mere pets for our enjoyment (sorry, your opinion is wrong), they are so much more. Thank you, Zeus, for everything you've done for me.