Day 1116

Sweet Lilly had a checkup at her home veterinary clinic this morning. Somewhat routine, she still needed to follow a technician to the back for a quick test. She did not want to go, but finally followed the employee out the door with words of encouragement from her Mama.

So often we need to encourage loved ones to do things they would not ordinarily choose without our pressure. We believe it is in their best interest, so we nudge, nod, encourage and even coerce them to face the unknown.

A few years ago, I had the joy and privilege of supporting a family with their newborn triplets. On one occasion, Grandma, Mom and Miss Laurie took them in for a series of booster shots. They were all smiles until the first needle appeared. I recall the sweeties each getting three shots! The crying (and decibels) increased until we left the clinic. We all knew they needed these shots, but the babies had not read that memo!

Children, the elderly, dogs and other individuals who need interventions in health or for other needs, may require a rather firm presence to help them move forward when backwards seems to be a better choice in their minds! Still, we take our children and seniors to appointments, pets to the vet and other loved ones to places they would never choose. We do it because we have the power to guide them to a healthier life.

Supporting by explaining the reasons, accompanying them and even holding a hand or paw is about all we can do. The bottom line is that we have loved ones in our lives who do not question our motives because their trust in us runs deep. Holding that trust close to our heart is critical as we maneuver our journey with others following our lead.

Lilly came back to the exam room and literally threw herself at me. The trust was intact! Sweet girl!