A Touch of Kindness

In a world filled with harsh realities and cynical perspectives, it’s easy to discount or overlook the value of kindness. I’ve been reminded in the last couple of days of its potential impact and power when applied in daily life. My teachers have four legs, fur, and sloppy tongues.

We acquired a new Cardigan Welsh Corgi puppy on Wednesday evening; a ten-pound ball of energy and enthusiasm whose fresh perspective on the world is infused with a sense of wonder and joy at each moment’s new discovery. He reacts to everything that he confronts with all his senses and his heart wide open. It is a joy to tag along as his world unfolds before him.

I credit his wonderful breeder for my very confident fellow’s life view. I saw the entire litter of seven puppies a few weeks ago, and I was astonished by their uniformly outgoing natures. There wasn’t a single “underdog” or bully in the bunch. I can only ascribe this remarkable outcome to Léo’s passion (Toreth), attentiveness and patience. But underlying all that, she treats all her animals with a touch of kindness that’s reflected in their bright eyes and cheerful, curious dispositions.

The marvelous thing about this underrated and often overlooked quality is its utter infectiousness. Every day I spend with little Clank (named for the mechanical sidekick in Ratchet and Clank), I feel grateful for the kind inspiration he offers to me and my family. He puts up with his cranky older brother with good grace, optimistically approaching him as a mentor and playmate. I can already see Ratchet softening his attitude, though a Corgi is a stubborn creature, so it may take awhile.

We have laughed more, walked and played more in the past few days with lighter hearts because of him. I guess that’s the thought I want to share. In taking time to be attentive to our new pup, we have slowed down and taken that deep breath that allows one to find the peaceful place inside. Moving from that place with the intention of practicing “random acts of kindness” lends such grace and beauty to life.

"The flower of kindness will grow. Maybe not now, but it will some day. And in kind that kindness will flow, for kindness grows in this way." -- Robert Alan

Just Think Differently.