Day 1324

Touch is comfort for most. It creates a safe haven when we are sad or frightened. The Golden Boys need that reassurance. Whether it is with a brother or the human family, they are rarely “disconnected.”

One of our senior friends lost a beloved family member recently. My phone rang and there he was. I immediately knew there was sadness on the other end of the line. After a brief sharing, he paused and said, “I just had to call someone and you came to mind.” Knowing a Therapy Dog was needed, we headed over. In the time spent with our friend, my natural need to touch was not rebuffed by this typically solitary man. He needed that connection.

A hand on the arm is sometimes all it takes to shoulder some of the burden another carries. We have held hands, gently soothed a brow and simply sat shoulder to shoulder with a person who needs human contact. It is an honor to be allowed to comfort. Of course, my Goldens lead the way. They are my “door-openers.”

My feeling is to follow my heart when someone is in need. I haven’t regretted it yet.