I can’t remember where I saw the advert. It was a simple two-line ad, “For sale, kelpie pups, $50 each”. So, I rang the number and got the address details and off I went. The address was about an hour drive away from home. When I arrived, there she was. It was love at first sight. All the other pups had been sold. I didn’t even hesitate. She was coming home with me. She was jet black all over. I picked her up, cuddled her and we set off for home.
We had a long chat on the way home. This was to become our norm. We talked about all sorts of things. We talked about her new home, the family, the importance of dogs in the family, the kids and their nuances… everything. Every day we would have a chat. We did this for eighteen years until it was time for her to go home.
Here are just a few of the things she would say to me…
“I don’t care. Yes, you need to lose a few pounds, but right now I love you and want you to know that you are completely worthy of my love. Just pass that comfort food down here…”
“Yes, you could spend a few extra dollars to do those special things and sort this place out, but right now you are already totally lovable anyway while we are working on that stuff.”
“Yes, you could do with fewer of those low moods and less levels of annoyance with some people, but right now you are already just perfect in my eyes just the way you are. Here, let me wag my tail for you – see, isn’t that better already?”
“Yes, you’ve had some messy relationships and made some stupid mistakes but no matter what happens, right now, I am fine with you just as you are.”
“I am sure if we share your meal together, we both will feel the better for it.”
“I know there is lots of space on that side of the bed, but I am most comfortable right here at the moment.”
“Your meditation will always be better if I stay right here at your feet.”
“I am really sore, stiff and in quite a bit of pain. But that will never stop me from getting up to say hello to you.”
“Dinner time is one of my favourite times. But even after dinner, I will always be happy to share yours too.”
“I like it when you talk to me. I don’t need to say anything, but I know when you talk to me it is good for both of us.”
“I like the way you smile at me when I wag my tail at you.”
“Maybe you think life can be like a piece of shit… but I just kick some dirt on mine and trot back inside to see if you are up for a walk …”
Miss that girl every day.
