Tuning out the Stupidity

Sometimes the world just makes me want to pound my head into my desk repeatedly. Not over anything big or important. Mostly over stupidity. And that’s when I remember that I need to step back, unplug from the internet and all the stupid things people post, tune out the awfulness of the local and national news, pretend that email doesn’t exist, and remember to live. It’s amazing what simply taking a breath can do. It doesn’t fix the world’s problems, but it does help me remember to be a person. I can start to think about real things like goals, the future, the people I love. That doesn’t mean I ignore everything all the time, but even just 5 minutes away can help.

What helps you step back from it all? What are the important things that come to the surface when you’re able to tune out all the stupidity?

Dogs are not my spirit animal, they're better.

Dogs are my spirit animal. No, dogs are better than my spirit animal because dogs are better than me. 

They are selfless, sweet, playful, patient, and rambunctious. Their love is beyond unconditional. Who else will lick your tears when you are crying, snuggle up to you when you are sick, tickle your toes with their nose, sit on your feet to show their love (okay, I lucked out here and my boyfriend lets me tuck my toes under him when I complain I’m too cold--contrary to what most people think, it’s an endearing act of love), and let you be entertained by them and their quirky approach to the world? 

I’m pretty sure none of my friends would play fetch with me or sit and watch endless hours of Matlock while I scratched them behind their ears (I suppose the ears part would be a bit much). 

Dogs remind us that there is life outside, that there is wonder in both the simplicity and complexity of nature around us, that love is what matters most, and that life is to be shared. So, happy National Dog Day! 

Life Lessons from Animals (for me, dogs)

• Sometimes it just takes a kind word (and a belly rub) to rebuild trust
• When you’re scared, reach out to those around you. (Maybe hide between their legs instead of under the bed?)
• It doesn't take much to be happy: shelter, food, companionship, purpose 
• Go out and enjoy the sunshine
• Go out and enjoy the rain (unless it’s lightning out--then watch from the window in amazement)
• Go out and enjoy the snow (it is fluffy, after all)
• When you’re happy, show it (let your tail wag)
• Snuggle up to the ones you love
• When it matters, go after it (the big stick)
• Take a nap
• You don’t always have to say something to get your message across (actions, not words)
• It doesn't have to be fancy to be worthwhile or fun (see video below) 
• Life is simple: love lots

What are some of your favorite lessons learned from animals?