This morning I took my dog, Buster, out for a walk. I so needed to get out of my head and be outdoors. Walking with Buster is a great way for me to clear my mind when I feel overwhelmed. (and get my exercise on!) Then, inspiration hit. Buster teaches me so many lessons just by being his dynamite doggy self.
He is proud and assertive. No worries about if he looks fat or if his fur isn’t shiny today.
He walks with his head held high. And looks handsome doing so.
As he romps about, he always has a smile on his face — and people respond to that.
He makes sure to engage with other dogs along the way. No wallflower is he. (Sometimes it doesn’t go over well, but he still tries.)
He is curious. Can’t wait to see what’s around the next corner — even though it’s our regular route.
He is excited to explore the new sights and smells coming his way. He is 100% in the PRESENT moment.
He checks in with his pack leader (me) on a regular basis — just a quick nod of his head to say “Hey, Mom, I’m with you!” Connection fosters confidence and momentum.
He is phenomenally alert to new smells, noise and shifts in energy. One cannot receive an opportunity unless one is open to it.
What life lessons have you encountered via an unexpected place/person/experience?



14 comments
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April 22, 2010 at 1:10 pm
Susan
Very cute and wonderful reminders. Like your humor Mary.
April 22, 2010 at 1:23 pm
trainufit
Thanks, Susan!! Glad you enjoyed.
April 27, 2010 at 10:36 am
Laura Hollick
Love it!
We can learn such profound things from our pets.
Your article is making me think of all the things my cat has taught me
thanks for the inspiration!
April 27, 2010 at 11:28 am
Susan Reynolds
I get that “guilty dog look” if I don’t taKe Allie out every day. She is my alarm clock in the morning to get up and get out!
April 27, 2010 at 12:06 pm
Ann Evanston
I love my Blaze, but walking her isn’t fun-she’s not a fan of other dogs – especially little ones. People- she loves people, but dogs, forget it. And SO MANY people let their little dogs walk off leash (dumb and illegal) that it makes it no fun for me to take her out.
April 27, 2010 at 12:54 pm
trainufit
Yes! My sweet Buster was attacked by a dog that was off leash in his owner’s yard. So irresponsible! A trip to the vet and several stitches later, my boy was okay. But, it was a scary thing to be in the middle of a dog fight in a matter of seconds. So upsetting to me the momma!!
April 27, 2010 at 12:48 pm
Irene Turner
Love it! While I don’t have a dog I do enjoy the walking and am almost always inspired a long the way. And I do know what a dog can teach you, I used to have one…makes me long for those days again. Thanks
April 27, 2010 at 12:55 pm
trainufit
Totally agree, Irene. I always find inspiration as I walk. Best thinking time for me and my biz!! : ) Glad you enjoyed my post!
April 27, 2010 at 1:42 pm
bill browning
Mary what an insightful and delightful article. I want to hang with Buster. I especially like his curiosity (even though it’s the regular route.) Words to live by. Thanks.
April 27, 2010 at 1:49 pm
trainufit
Thank you, Bill! This is one of my personal favorite posts I’ve written. I now remind myself “Be Like Buster!”. I should make up a bumper sticker of that!
April 27, 2010 at 4:12 pm
Lee
That’s really cool to learn from Buster about some of the things we tend to forget with our busy lives and all! Sounds like it would be a doggone life!=)
Lee
April 27, 2010 at 4:17 pm
Dianne DelReyes
Mary, I just absolutely loved the lessons from Buster, and your awareness of these messages.
Buster is so aligned with the universal laws and the Chinese Medicine 5-elements…
Fire element – is that connection
Water element – is to be curious
earth element – to serve
I just love how Buster just naturally does this… we as humans have so much to learn… thanks for sharing…
Warmly
Dianne
April 27, 2010 at 11:36 pm
trainufit
Thanks, Dianne! I will tell Buster he is in alignment with the universal laws & the 5 elements. I’m sure he will be pleased. And I will keep learning from him, the wise pup. : )
Mary
April 28, 2010 at 9:29 am
Tanya Boggs
Love this! Lesson’s are everywhere if you’re present and aware. My daughter has taught me WAY MORE than I ever expected. I knew I had a lot to learn about being a mother, but she has been teaching me life lessons from the very start!