doggone redemption

My parents got a new dog yesterday.
After Patty passed this fall right before my brother left for college, a surprising and unwelcome loneliness settled over the house. Not only were they empty nesters, but my folks didn’t have a dog to keep them company. Patty was a lovely companion especially in her old age. Her read coat stayed beautiful and shiny as ever but the grey hair of wisdom and gentleness showed in other ways. She nuzzled herself easily into you lap, her big eyes and soft nose staring at you. The fireplace looked so picturesque with her laying by the hearth. Patty wagged her tail on steak night, chased squirrels and birds on walks, and readily cuddled in the evenings.

The new dog did not come as Patty. The six year-old Irish setter, Ruby, has endured a different and difficult life. The first couple years included shock collars and unjust abuse. She came to a kennel where she then gave birth to pure-breds until age allowed her to retire. She and my dad can bond ;) But regardless of the attention she received at the kennel, the formative years continue to haunt and affect her behavior and disposition.

We as humans can find ourselves in similar situations. At times a little TLC is all it takes to run and play with joy and freedom and retain the desire to come hand around. The gift of the master’s love draws us to return the affection even in our mere presence. But we can also experience times when freedom is replaced with timidity and fear. Mutual love is not shared because one was not taught or shown.
Likewise, the masters can give a little and receive bunches in return. Patti experienced care so she could be a great, loyal companion in return. But now my parents will not be automatically given unconditional love and loyalty. They will have to shower Ruby in that which she has never know in full. Love.

I can’t help but notice this reality exists with more than just dogs. We can all relate to a character in this analogy. Patti, Parents or Passive Puppy each hold a place in the story. I know Ruby’s story is too much the norm in these times. I t breaks my heart to see someone squelched and broken from lack of love. Abuse may exist but indifference over a lifetime leaves its mark, too. But I believe this story is one of redemption. I can’t be more grateful for the times I’ve been redeemed from the less the glorious moments. I ‘m thankful that we each have a purpose in one another’s redemptive story. How little it takes for all the difference it makes! And I look forward to the day when such suffering and damaging situations cease and redemption reigns. I believe it will and I believe it starts even now, one dog at a time.