With the new movie "A Dog's Purpose" out in theaters right now, it got me thinking - what is my dog's purpose? I haven't seen the movie yet, however I know enough about it. The dog lives multiple lives as multiple different dogs, teaching each owner new lessons about life. So, I began to question what type of lessons my dogs have taught me throughout the years.
Depending on who you are, you're reading this and thinking one of two things: How on earth can a dog teach a human a lesson? or I can relate to this article on a personal level. So, if you're a dog owner or simply a dog lover, you're probably the person thinking the second thought. No matter which thought popped into your head, I guarantee that if you read on, you'll understand what I'm talking about when I say that my dogs have taught me pretty significant life lessons. With that being said, here are the top 5 life lessons that my dogs have taught me over the years.
1. (Real) Love is unconditional.
A dog will love you endlessly every single day of your life - even if you're mad at them. You can be having the worst day of your life, be in the worst mood possible, and have the worst attitude, and they will still stick by your side all day with smiling faces, ready to show you love whenever you need it. If that's not unconditional, I don't know what is.
2. There is nothing bad enough that a yummy treat can't make better.
If your dog is gloomy, sad or mopey, what do you do to cheer them up? Say the word "treat" - all problems will be fixed, at least temporarily. The same goes for us; what do you do when you're gloomy, sad or mopey? Treat yourself. Ice cream, cookies, brownies, candy - no matter what the treat is, it'll solve your issues long enough for you to feel a little better.
3. Its important to greet every new adventure - and person - with excitement.
A dog could simply be walking outside to get the mail with you, and you would think that they're going to get a lifetime supply of treats - that's how excited they get. And, they seem to enjoy everything they get excited about, too, so why not mimic that excitement in our own lives? It'll make everything a little more enjoyable. As for meeting new people, I wouldn't recommend jumping all over them and following them for 10 minutes like dogs do. But, you should greet them with a positive attitude and a smiling face. Do you ever wonder why so many people love dogs?
4. Always take advantage of a chance to spend time with someone you love.
Dog's will do anything to spend time with you - they'll simply walk around a neighborhood with you and love every second of it. Don't pass up a chance to be with those who love you, no matter what you're doing. If you're in the presence of those you love, then it shouldn't matter.
5. Always show people that you love and appreciate them.
They lick you, cuddle you, follow you, smile at you, and wag their tails at you. Basically, you will never second guess if your dog loves you. Show the people around you that same appreciation and love - just not in those same ways.
Overall, if people treated each other how kindly and genuinely dog's treat us, the world would be a much happier place. Now, I know that's a weird thing to say, but it's true. Start taking lessons from your dogs - again, weird, but completely beneficial.
