Day 1399

It seemed slightly risky to let all the boys out at the same time, but I needn’t have been concerned. After a brief run around the backyard, they paired off for some wrestling. “Ranger the Ref” watched while Gus and Sam roughhoused and our Charlie/Hank duo followed suit. Even when all five interacted, the older ones took great care to play gently. How do they know?

There is something about the “littles” of a species that brings out the gentlest spirits in us all. Literally melting when baby animals are on display, the mother in me emerges with accompanying baby talk and cooing noises. It simply comes out of my depths, like vestiges of ancestors who also reacted in a nurturing way. There is no excuse for my behavior.

The older Goldens, who have no reason to be gentle, have a calm, gentle demeanor and allow the puppies to pounce, growl and nip with their little piranha choppers. No retaliation… only a vast understanding of Charlie and Hank being babies. Even Sammy finds pleasure in gently playing with them!

Our family was at a theme park when, upon having the attraction doors opened, a dad pushed his way in for a great seat. Suddenly, there was a wailing sound from a very young girl who had been abandoned by the father in the rush for a good spot. All of the mommies, and even a few daddies, surrounded her like a herd of elephants during an earthquake (check that amazing situation out!) as someone picked her up to offer comfort. By the time the father retraced his steps to “right his wrong,” the crowd had grown protectively hostile. Let me say, I am just glad I hadn’t forgotten anyone! He scurried back in with one sarcastic shout from the rear of the crowd…”Hope you got a great seat!” Every adult in line had reacted with compassion and some internal instinct to protect the young one left behind.

Even though adults have clashes now-and-then, when it comes to a universal reaction to protect “Littles”, it gives me hope.