Dogs Are Tired and I Bet You Are, Too
Sparty the Dog: I am so tired.
Me: I know, buddy. I know.
Sparty: I am worried about everyone and that I'm not doing enough to help.
Me:
Sparty: You too?
Me: Pretty much.
Sparty: We should probably take a cuddle break.
Me: Probably.
Sparty: But think about all the dogs dealing with these things, right now, and their owners. They are probably incapable of having a cuddle break, aren't they?
Me:
Sparty:
Me: Let's get back to work, buddy.
Sparty: Maybe we can hold paws once in awhile, though, right?
Me: Always.
There have been so many disasters and potential disasters this year for so many people (political, physical, emotional, life-threatening, decimating) that I know many people are just exhausted.
We can't be exhausted yet.
To my sweet friends in Puerto Rico, Florida, the islands in Irma's path, Texas, the states with fires, the countries with floods, the cities and towns full of pain, I am so sorry. To my sweet friends who have moved out of this country or are afraid they will be sent away, I am so sorry. To my sweet friends who have listened and lived with systemic prejudices and out-right hatred, I am so sorry.
We can't give up. But also, take care of yourselves as best as you can. It's okay to cuddle. Really.
Let's try to face these disasters with kindness and strength, with unity and love. Let's try to remember the magic of empathy and forward action to make this world and ourselves better. And when that doesn't work? It means we still have work to do.