Day 1430

Yesterday, Sammy played a bit too hard with Charlie and was horrified when the puppy let out a scream! Sam ran away and circled back to see if the puppy was alright. Of course, “Mama Bear” was already on the scene of the crime to check for the source of the scary reaction. The pup was as good as new, so the older dog was invited in to lick a puppy face. All was forgiven, but Sam couldn’t let it go. He proceeded to go inside and sit in a corner. When I came in, he actually hung his head! Poor baby!

After a lot of reassurance and love, he came out of the corner and walked right into the downstairs shower! I quickly kicked off shoes, rolled up my jeans and followed him in. I truly believe he wanted to be punished so that he could face the world again. The shower was healing for him and he emerged s VERY humble wet dog!

When we know we have made a mistake, it can gnaw on our hearts for a long time. Finding the right avenue for redemption is essential. My choices have usually been in the form of a card, phone call or a face-to-face encounter. Once the apology is out in the open, it is up to the other person to accept or decline. Only twice in my life have I experienced the latter. As sad as that may have made me, I had spoken from the heart and now I left the burden I was carrying behind. (Those can get pretty heavy!).

Sam is forgiven…Charlie probably has no memory of the incident…and life goes on. Feeling sorry for an action or words can weigh heavy on your heart. Walk that load over to the person who needs to hear an apology and then you can then put the burden down. It is freeing…just ask Sam!