I’ve had the chance recently to watch a human-dog relationship that is beyond anything I’ve ever seen. If you’ve ever seen one like this (or better, had one) I would love to hear about it.
An elderly gentleman who walks with a cane has come to the dog park every morning for the past few months with a gorgeous young male Doberman. Watching them together is a rare gift because this is a bond so special it takes your breath away.
The old man walks v-e-r-y slowly and carefully on his cane. It takes him forever to go just a few feet. He is a quiet man – always speaking softly and with a gentle sense of humor. Watching him shuffle down the hill and across the park is to watch patience and determination in action.
The dog is glued to his side and watches every expression and every motion the man makes. He literally dances next to the man and never takes his eyes off of the man’s face. When the man asks him to sit, he plops down with joy. And when the man throws the ball, the dog’s delight is there for all to see. The dog is patient, attentive, and clearly adores this sweet old man. And the man shows his great love for his dog in the most quiet way I’ve ever seen.
The bond between these two is something rare. He never raises his voice – he’s the picture of patience, tolerance and peace. And the dog responds with total devotion. It’s a beautiful, beautiful thing.
Those of us who meet in the morning just stand and watch them at times – the old man and the adoring young dog. We marvel at being gifted with seeing something so special and rare.
I love my girls and they love me – but this is something far beyond anything I’ve ever seen. Maybe, one day, if I’m able to become patient, and peaceful, and tolerant enough, I’ll get to have that experience – both for myself and for my dog.
