Day 1569

Sam is always by my side…always. What a humbling comfort for me. Actually, all of them are beside me…all five are near enough to touch as I write…but Sammy is different. He looks at me like I am his world. How do you live up to that devotion?

Watching people who cross my path, it fascinates me that every single one has a life, a history and hopefully at least one being that sees them as Sammy sees me. If you are truly blessed, you have a few.

Feeling worthy of that loyalty can be an issue at times. For me, it centers around a combination of self-deprecation, guilt for not being everything they believe me to be and not taking time to appreciate that trusting devotion.

As the years go by, people tend to feel more comfortable in their own skin. There does not seem to be the need to acknowledge any peer pressure and most embrace the “what you see is what you get” attitude. Although I marvel at the faith people place in me, I try to accept it gracefully and work at becoming even better in their eyes.

Perhaps the biggest stumbling block to honoring the relationships that offer the most is making the time to consciously honor that devotion. It can slip through the cracks of a busy day. Making time to embrace those who share their hearts should be a priority in life. The wash will keep and the dust can gather…

Hold the hand,

Offer your entire attention,

Send the card,

Make the call,

Tell them…

The most important gift anyone can offer is a part of their heart. Feeling deserving or not, try to honor those who surround you with their love…whether they walk on two or four legs.