December 3, 2017

White Dog took note of Bella's earnest look and shifted over so that she could join us. It wasn't really a conversation, but rather time spent in the company of each other while an entire spectrum of thoughts flitted between us. There was no order, no structure. Most of the time was filled with an emotive silence of body positions and facial expressions...or just stillness.

It was a therapy session in a way, a respite from the noise of the world and a processing of the headlines. One thing that the White Dog Army adds to our family's perspective is that all have known fear and uncertainty about the future...they each had the determination and will to find their way to the White Dog Army...to safety and security; to the power of group energy; to the strength of love. They are not easily daunted.

As an overthinking human  I look at where things are headed and I panic that our environment, our ability to coexist in the world, our peace, our basic rights and our democracy will be ripped away and that we will be engulfed in dark chaos.

The White Dog Army, especially my girls cuddling against me, advise me to hold fast to my belief and hope. It is that at the core that provides the courage and strength we will need to reach the dawn of a new chance, a better future. Each of them knows this from experience; each knows because they have passed through the darkest of challenges to find their way here. "Stay true and do not doubt," WD says. Bella licks my hand then perks her ears forward.

The sound of the impending mail delivery (yes, on Sunday!) sends both girls to the windows to sing a song of welcome and anticipation.

I put a hand on the warm spots left behind and toughen my resolve. We CAN. We WILL.

Thanks, Bella. Thanks White Dog.You always know how to calibrate me.