Day 1382

It’s a great big world out there! Hank and Charlie love to watch the activity swirl by and I can only imagine what their little brains are thinking.

Of course, genetics play a part, but most beings enter the world with a clean slate. Immediately, there is an onslaught to the senses and the earliest of memories begin to form. We are intent on making every interaction gentle and loving for our pups.

As an educator, I would often wonder about my second graders and their short journey in life. For seven or eight years, they had been at the mercy of their families with all decisions made on their behalf. Sports, music lessons, travel, discipline, diets ( or lack thereof )…you name it, they had little control. For the most part, I could have written a biography of their first years by interacting with them for only a few weeks. What really stood out was the amount of love, support and nurturing each one had received…it showed.

However, once in a while, a student would surprise me. After meeting with parents or guardians at the first conferences, I would be stunned at how certain children had beat the odds. Discovering that a particular student was basically raising himself (or herself), I would marvel at their self-administered discipline, drive and kind heart. It was almost as if they were born that way and nothing could derail them.

Those children set the bar in my eyes. No excuse or complaint could hold a candle to the tenacity of those youngsters who had the wherewithal to nurture their own heart, set goals and even be a leader to the group. They always had my complete respect.

Often times, I would eventually discover that there was one adult who made the difference. One grandparent, neighbor or “angel” who grounded the child and gave them direction, security and foundation. Mentors are powerful!

We might each be that person for another. Either by design or circumstance, we can anchor another life. What a gift that is!

For our two little guys, we will continue to teach them, give them the best care and love them to pieces. They have big jobs ahead as Therapy Dogs and now is the time to start!