Six years ago, when our dog was a young puppy, she was enticed by something under one of our apple trees. I saw from a distance what looked like a small body laying there and thought it may have been a dead rabbit.
I called to her. She thankfully responded to me and came running. I let her in the side door of our garage and proceeded outside to a dark yard alone with a flashlight. There as I approached the back of our yard, I saw two beady eyes and a long animal slowly move across our lawn. It was a possum. It had played dead in what it perceived as danger. It displayed what was inherently natural for it.
Animals usually protect themselves and we need to do the same thing. What are the ways we can do that?
1-We need to avoid straying into dangerous territory. That doesn’t only mean physical territory, like places we don’t know well; it also includes exposing our senses to the wrong things.
If you are inclined to eat sugar laden foods, it might be good to avoid the bakery section of a grocery store where the aroma entices you to eat.
If you are trying to be financially prudent, it may mean staying off of online sites that encourage you to spend money.
2-We need to use and protect our noses from bad foods, from inhaling polluted air, or exposing ourselves to smoking. A dogs senses are designed to protect them. We need to use our senses to do the same. Sniff out the milk or other foods in your refrigerator; dates aren’t the only indication that foods may be stale or old. We need to keep our homes well ventilated. Sometimes driving in our cars with windows open is also healthy. We need to breath in fresh air.
3-Minding our own business and trying not to change others is a healthy way to live. If you have ever parented or taught a strong willed child, one learns quickly that it is difficult to change others. We can only change our perception of others and control our own behaviors.
4-We need to protect our eyes from viewing pornography or violent images and turn instead to good pieces of literature. Refraining from movies and on-line evil are good now and for the future. Instead, reading books is a high-minded activity. There are marvelous classic movies and musicals to enjoy. Keeping healthy literature available to read is excellent for all. We must put healthy ideas in our minds and cultivate them.
5-Ingesting fresh foods and taking in healthy liquids is good for our health. Animals drink plenty of water. They seem to know when they are thirsty vs hungry. In a society that has so many processed foods, we need to get back to naturally grown fruits and vegetable. Taking in fresh water and a variety of other drinks rather than carbonated, caffeinated, or sugary drinks is best. Back to homemade vegetable broths and iced tea may help fill our palettes and stay well.
6-We need to listen to one another, good music, and be aware of our surroundings. Listening to the needs and concerns of one another is a lost art. People are consumed with social media and losing valuable social skills. Well trained animals are alert and listen to their masters. They respond to strange noises and alert others.
The art of a healthy conversation has become argumentative and mean spirited. Everyone is striving to be right and then become defensive. We become jealous and power struggles ensue. This seems to be even more of a problem when it comes to politics, money, and/or religion. Maybe the old rule should go back into vogue where one doesn’t talk about these things quite as freely.
7-Begin seeing friends and family regularly. Pets are so good at greeting and enjoying people. They are also excellent at sniffing out people with ulterior motives. They remind us to make time to meet with others. Discern who you are empowered and like to be with on a regular basis. Listen to good music or pick up an instrument to relax with one another. Mingle more with neighbors for a cup of tea, cola, or beer and you’ll feel less lonely. Better yet start strolling with friends for exercise and quality time.
As people we are to be gentle, steadfast, diligent, and helpful to one another. We are called to be obedient to our elders and forgiving to one another. Self control, being caring, and acting with honesty bring me back to our pets. They are great instructors. They teach us loyalty and concern for one another by their example.
Have a wonderful weekend. As we approach Easter, reach out and encourage someone today. It’s a great way to “Delight in Living”!