"As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart" ~Proverbs 27:19

Man's Best Friend


posted by J. Amendt Eickman on ,

7 comments


"A dog can express more with his tail in minutes than his owner 
can express with his tongue in hours."  ~Anonymous


A couple weekends ago we were able to watch our "puppy niece," or that's what we call her. Bailey is such a joy to all she meets. She's a sweet yellow lab, with floppy ears, a gentle soul, and such a lovable smile!

We are always excited when her parents ask us to watch her and jump at the chance of getting our "puppy fix" (much like the "baby fix" we get from watching kids like "J-man")

Well, that weekend I was alone with Bailey one night, as my husband was out on business. We were playing fetch-which I tend to forget that Labradors can play this game for hours- and I had something heavy on my heart and was a bit down. I think Bailey sensed it, as she dropped her toy at my feet and sat down next to me, placing her chin on my knees. She looked up at me with those big brown puppy eyes that whispered, "I'm here!"

So, we had a girl-talk. She listened as I poured my heart out. She sat still (which is a huge feat for a 1-year-old lab) as I told her what I obviously needed to talk out. She sat there with her head on my knees, and as tears started to roll down my cheeks she placed one paw on one of my hands and the second atop my other. She then looked up at me and a sense of peace came over me and I knew then that everything was going to be alright.

Since my girl-night with Bailey I've been thinking about animals and empathy, specifically dogs. Can they feel what we feel? Can they sense when their owners, or in my case aunt, is sad or not feeling well? Do dogs, or animals in general, have feelings?

I'd love to hear from you!

Our niece Bailey


Blessings!
~JAE

7 comments:

  1. Jenn, I absolutely love reading your posts. On Life 107.1 yesterday, the radio personality said sometimes the way God shows his love to you is through the words and actions of others. Your uplifting messages certainly are like God's love enveloping me.

    I loved your post today - and read it with tears in my eyes. Growing up, our very naughty Golden Retriever, Chester, tore up my mother's kitchen floor, stole bagels from the countertops, and loved to run away. But, he was always there. Always. He would sit with me during really challenging times, a calming and a steady presence. I never doubted he had a wise and understanding soul.

    My doggie today, Crockett, is absolutely a great love of my life. He is pure joy to me. And, like Chester, Crockett is always there for me. He stayed up with me late nights studying or writing papers during grad school. He is a steadfast companion. And, on sad days, he just curls up by me like an old friend who doesn't need to say anything - but who's presence is more than enough.

    I love you, Jenn!
    Katie

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    1. Katie, I hope you know what an encouragement you are to me!! :)

      Your post made me laugh and tear up! I always joke that their better be dogs and animals in heaven! ;) They sure do make this life so much more rich and enjoyable! Love you you Nick & Crockett!

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  2. Lovely:)

    I just had to thank you, Jenn for leaving that message about replying to comments on the blogger forum. It worked for me and I am absolutely thrilled. Thank you so much, Louise

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  3. Jenn you know how much I love and miss you! Our Kiba has been such a Godsend during our move! I talk to her all the time..... and she listens so well:) She is a constant reminder of family and friends because her personality fits right in and we've shared so many happy times around her antics! I'll never forget you "hiding" from her in my kitchen!!

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    1. T!! I miss you guys and am so glad you have Kiba to help make your family seem more complete! I adore Kiba (and frankly if you lived closer you may have to worry about me begging for some custody time) and I will forever remember our fun week we lived with you!

      I bet you never thought you'd see a 28 year old woman laying on top of your counter "hiding" from your schnauzer! ;)

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    2. I love you Jenn can't wait to see you soon:) !! I wish we were closer too you could enjoy Kiba time anytime! I loved those hide and seek times and trust me Van and family have been in even crazier hiding places!!! Think Midwest basements! Ha!

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