Day 1264

Where I go, they will follow. It is most humbling to have that devotion surrounding me. Although I realize their basic needs are met by us, that does not seem to explain their almost desperate need to be near us at all times.

I don’t have to delve too deeply into our bond to realize the heart is the culprit. They give us every indication that the “need” to be near is a “want” driven by love. Our Goldens are capable of that seemingly human emotion and they love from their smiling faces to their wagging tails.

Love is one of those emotions that is behind so many actions. We often don’t think, process or predict when the heart is in charge… we simply answer a perceived need. On some visceral level, we react to connecting with those we love before we even think. We seem to be wired that way.

Luckily, it is most often a two-way street where the love is returned as soon as it is given. Although I can never give my Goldens as much love as they offer me, I can be aware of that unconditional love and make sure I pay it forward. I learn so much from my boys!

So, go ahead and appreciate the love surrounding you…just make sure it bounces back to the people who matter most to you!