Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's
owners Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were
hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker,
and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to
observe the procedure.

They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so
calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a
few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together
for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than
human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more
comforting explanation.

He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the
time and being nice, right?" The six-year-old continued, "Well, dogs already know how to do that, so
they don't have to stay as long."

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply
Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher r you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle
them gently.

Be always grateful for each new day

Today, I wish you a day of ordinary miracles: May joy dance in your
soul, may love fill your hea rt and may peace reign in your home.