Day 1394

Gus was amazing at Mercy this morning! Two straight hours of supporting, uplifting and loving staff and patients throughout the facility. Comments came often and sincerely…

“I was having the worst day and Gus just made it better!

“Would you be able to visit my wife up on 4th floor? She is missing her dog!”

“Just petting his head is calming my heart.”

The list goes on and on. Gus doesn’t seem to know his impact on everyone he meets…he simply shares his sweet self with anyone in his path.

At the other end of the leash, I guide him around the halls, listen to multitudes of beautiful dog stories and keep an eye out for safety hazards and people in need. Although my heart reaches out to everyone we meet, often my empathetic tendencies are not ignited due to my need to be vigilant. Today, I vowed to connect more deeply.

One woman was celebrating a successful heart surgery for her husband. That one was easy for me to embrace. Been there before! Another was taking her daughter in for surgery. I allowed myself to embrace that fear. Another was dealing with a recent stroke. Connecting with her allowed me to feel the depth of her frustration. Every time I opened my heart, it was more meaningful.

Both Gus and I were exhausted as we got into the car to go home. In retrospect, I know there are those interactions where we must embrace the real feelings of those we visit. Although the heart is deeply involved with a few, the others certainly are not ignored. We can share joy, compassion and other emotions they need to share.

One lady shared about her dog and asked if she should consider training/testing for Therapy Dog work. My answer? I told her absolutely! Your life will be enriched more than you can imagine! Go for it!!!

Tired or not, I wouldn’t change a thing.