As I was sitting out in the garden last night watching the poodle watch the world, and looking at his profile, I thought about so many canines I have watched and been fascinated by. I was struck for the first time that there is an old-soul-ness to them which is one of the things I realize that find so fascinating. Who is it that watches through those deep eyes?
Yes, their senses are on fire as they take in the world of scents and sounds, even tastes, and sights that far exceed my ability to perceive at such distances. But there is more.
Theirs is a kind wisdom, silent and simple. I think it’s what I’ve touched on before, when the wild games of frisbee and monster are no longer available to us. There is acceptance and adaptability and a simple understanding of just being.
And of course there is poise, as you can see in this picture. Nothing I taught him. I swear he went to finishing school in those weeks between birth and the time we brought him into our lives. He has his habits, his manners, his own way of doing things. Quite comical, quite matter of fact, simple unassuming poise while someone gets dinner, fetches a treat or digs in the garden swatting and cursing at the insects or swearing over a stubbed toe or a gashed shin. Poise. Attention. Simplicity. Wonder. Thought. And, finally, an approving lick on the nose
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