With the New Year approaching, I took the opportunity to have a serious conversation with Pepper. She was settled in comfortably on the loveseat in the kitchen – napping, actually – and I sat down next to her.
She perked right up. I told her I had some proposed resolutions for her. “Some are more important than others,” I noted. “The first three you might consider aspirational. The last three you should consider high priority. I’ve written them down on a list for you, and I hope they will serve as a guide and a motivation in the New Year. Here they are:
- I resolve to ignore rolls of toilet paper and boxes of kleenex and their possibilities.
- I resolve stay off your bed, especially when anyone else is in the room as a witness.
- I resolve to stop counter surfing.
- I resolve to greet people in ways that do not include jumping on them.
- I resolve to not bark so fiercely that I look and sound like a rabid dog when the mother with the double stroller walks by.
- I resolve to steer clear of poop in the yard, even if I am sorely tempted to roll in it or eat it.”
I looked at her with a steely gaze. “What do you think of those resolutions?”
“I’m down with them,” she responded cheerfully. “I can try.”
“Do you have any ideas for resolutions for me?” I asked. “I’ve been thinking about those too, and I have a long list for myself.”
She considered for a moment. “I can only think of one.”
“Only one?” I asked incredulously.
“Just the one: I resolve to listen more than I speak and to speak the truth I discern.”
“Wow, Pep… that is Yoda-level profound. Thank you. That is exactly what I want to do in the new year. More listening… more truth. If I can.” Quietly: “And thanks for not mentioning all the other ways I could be a better human.”
She licked my hand and I kissed her face and she decided it was a good time to get back to her nap. I didn’t blame her. It is wise to begin the New Year well rested.
* * *
May the Force be with you in the New Year!
December 31, 2015 at 6:23 am
How old is Miss Pep? I know it took my beloved Strider a year to train. He’s totally chill now, although I would never, ever be careless enough to leave bacon within his reach!
December 31, 2015 at 7:09 am
Pep is a year and a half, and any bad behavior is completely my fault! Even wise dogs like Peppy do what is insufficiently discouraged. Warmest of wishes to you for a Happy New Year, Miriam! And I’ll check in with you via email for some tips! Xo
January 3, 2016 at 10:04 am
Listen more… How wise, thank you! And Happy New Year!
January 3, 2016 at 1:37 pm
Thank you, Sine! And all best wishes to you! xo