Day 1078
Storms are not on The Goldens’ “Top 10 Favorite Things” list! With the onset of severe weather season, they need a little extra TLC. We had them run out to the backyard before the storms were predicted today and they were NOT pleased!!!! Miss Lilly refused to leave the house and the boys made the trip out and back in record time! Now they are all curled up at our feet, waiting for the skies to clear. Poor sweeties!
I love storms! Although not a fan of the destructive variety, I do enjoy the anticipation and electricity in the air when a storm is approaching. When I was 10, I vividly recall seeing the 1965 Fridley tornado as it approached. We were on our way to see “Mary Poppins” at the Terrace Theater that night. Seeing one tornado allows me to happily check that off my Bucket List…no need to check it off again!
One of my aunts was desperately afraid of storms. About this time of year, she would begin sleeping in the basement…just in case. She had an early version of a weather radio and would call us to “Take Cover” when a storm was brewing. The first time the Civil Defense sirens were used for tornadoes was in 1965. I wonder if the Fridley tornado had anything to do with that? At least my aunt had another source to warn her from deep in her bunker in the basement. Her fears impacted her life in so many ways.
We all face fears in life. Many times they are based on experiences that negatively impacted our existence. Storms, illness, accidents and so many more experiences can trigger fears from our past. This is all good for the survival of our species, but there can be a line in the sand that goes from safety to a smothering anxiety. Whether you need to talk it out or rationalize that your fears are unfounded, it seems to be life-giving to deal with them when they get out-of-hand.
In our Therapy Dog work, we sometimes see a fearful reaction to the pups. These people have a history and simply need to know that they will not be approached by the Goldens. Although I reassure as best I can, we either turn around or give a wide berth. Every now-and-then, we win one over.
The storms have passed, but the Goldens are sticking close…just to be on the safe side! Although we cannot help them understand that their fears are somewhat irrational, we can offer them what all people need when faced with fear…acceptance, comfort and love. That makes it all better for two and four-legged hearts alike.
