Lessons Learned from Our Dog

We had to say goodbye to our beloved Kazzi this week. As I think about her, it strikes me that we should all try to live our lives with as much grace, spirit and open heart as she embodied. Kazzi taught some very important lessons by example:

1- Love unreservedly 

Kazzi’s devotion to my husband was a thing of pure beauty. They were rarely apart, so we had to employ subterfuge when he had to travel (hiding the suitcase became critical). But she loved me too, a great deal, as well as the many members of her fan club at work and amongst our friends.

2-Be tolerant

From our feral cat who (as a kitten) used to hang from her side, to the newest member of the family who was quite sure she would always want to play with him, she would go along with just a bit of a doggie eye roll.

3-But, stand your ground when necessary 

When one of your siblings has stolen your bed for the zillionth time, show them who’s the alpha in the family. (Even if their bed is just a little small for you…)

4-Play! (No matter what your age)

The night before her very last day, Kazzi was asking to play tug of war with her favorite ball. We can only hope we’re still doing this when we’re the human equivalent of her age (96).

5- Treat every stranger as a future friend

Kazzi acted as a one-dog welcoming committee at home and work, and greeted everyone with a wag and a sweet friendly face. 

As we mourn our loss, we also celebrate the life of this joyful, sweet, loving soul. Always in our hearts…