Day 1441

Ranger takes his mentorship seriously. He also seems to have great tolerance and affection for the puppies. Watching them this morning, I couldn’t help but compare their stages in life. One is just beginning while the other is enjoying the fruits of old age.

It would seem that life is a bit like a Bell Curve in that, at the beginning, learning is new, slow and puzzling while the later years are also slow and full of wisdom. The slow part, on each end, is not only the learning curve, but also physical abilities. Recalling videos of Hank and Charlie as they first learned to “walk” with their eyes not yet open, reminds me of their vulnerability and potential. Spending time visiting with our senior friends at Walker and Norbella also finds them slow…but wise. One group is looking forward while the other looks back to memories. Somewhere in the middle of those groups is the age of blending…looking back and forward as wisdom begins to develop.

Being nearer to the senior group, there are times when contentment is tandem with my energy level and ability to embrace new things. Pushing myself forward, I still tend to find more energy to embrace the new opportunities presented. On the other hand, there is nothing wrong with accepting some limitations and enjoying the joys of reminiscing and quiet solitude.

Today, four of the Golden Boys are looking forward to their walks while Ranger and I will reach into our energy reserves and head out with them! On that walk, however, my mind might just be full of memories with a hopeful look to the future. These pups tend to bring out the “young” in me!