You give more to get more.
That’s what we learned when we first welcomed Moxie into our lives. It’s not a decision to take lightly because adopting a dog, especially a puppy, turns your life upside down completely.
It’s life changing in the best possible way. But it’s not easy and it’s not supposed to be. Easy and hassle-free is what dishwashers and home delivery are for. They provide convenience, which frees up time for more important things.
Our dog is that more important thing, but the joy and connection we get depends, at least in part, on the effort we put in.
For me, one of the best examples happens when I’m finally working hard and being productive. Somehow that’s exactly when two big eyes and a wagging tail appear.
‘Wait, it’s too soon to need to use the bathroom,’ is always the first thought that runs through my head.
Of course, that’s not what the wagging tail means at all. She has just woken up from a nap with her battery on full charge. There’s a whole new world to sniff and explore, and, what, we’re just going to sit here?
Sometimes it’s just not possible to drop what I’m doing. I can’t make a living that way, or keep our bellies full and our heads roofed-over.
Just as often, I don’t want to. Usually, I like what I’m doing and a walk or game of fetch isn’t my preference for just that moment. But, when I can close the laptop, step away, and grab the Knotted Leash and Mother Hucker, it’s always worth it.
My heart is happier and, as it turns out, my work and other activities benefit too.
That’s because a dog’s purpose isn’t convenience or time-savings. It’s to take the time we free up from dishwashers and home delivery, and give incredible joy and connection.
So, the more we give to our dog, the more we get back in return – and that’s how we live extraordinary together.
