Pure Joy!

     In the spring of 2011, Al and I adopted two young dogs from a pet “foster home” in Bakersfield. They are developing into wonderful “fur sons” as they mature and learn to obey. Strong bonds are already growing between us.

     Each has a distinctive personality. Teddy, the golden retriever, is living up to his breed by being gentle, affectionate and wanting to please. TJ, a black lab, is just a few months younger and a little smaller than Teddy. TJ is energetic and strong-willed. He likes to stand Snoopy-like on the pointed top of the doghouse so that he can have the best vantage point whenever we drive in or out of the garage, or when people come to visit.  

     The happiest time of day for the two of them is when they are let out of the dog run and are free to run around the whole property, which covers almost 2 acres. There are plenty of new smells to investigate and birds to chase. Then there is always swimming in the pond, which they both love to do. 

     TJ tends to be full of energy when the gate of the dog run is opened first thing in the morning, biting and romping with his ‘brother,’ who doesn’t appreciate it at all. For a diversion, I have starting taking a Frisbee with me, throwing it out into the yard as soon as I open their gate. Now TJ chases after the flying disc, while Teddy can run without being hindered by his little buddy.

      It’s a marvel to watch TJ, ears flying as he leaps into the air to try to catch the Frisbee and prances over the lawn with it in his mouth. Sometimes he even flips it into the air, and then spins in circles trying to get it. If ever there was a picture of pure joy, it has to be personified in that little black lab as he chases after the Frisbee.

     The hardest part for him is trying to pick it up off the ground, best accomplished by putting his nose underneath it and grabbing the edge with his teeth. Then he runs around the yard holding his trophy high. We’re both improving—TJ in his timing so that he can catch it in mid- air, and I in my throwing so that it will float rather than just roll along the ground.    

     He gets so excited when holding it that he doesn’t want to let go, tugging on one end while I have hold of the other. Usually I just let it loose, while saying, “Bring it here TJ” over and over. If that doesn’t work, a bribe of a “dog cookie” will persuade him to bring the Frisbee back to me. 

      After a few minutes of playing, I’ll snatch it away and say, “Come on! Let’s go find Teddy.” Then off TJ goes at full speed, while I follow at a brisk walk.

     I have had lots of fun playing this little game with TJ. His joy is really contagious! Al longs for the day when he is able to play Frisbee and walk around the pond with us. Right now, he’s patiently waiting for his ankle to heal from surgery and is content to watch, or occasionally throw it, while I help retrieve.

     As the New Year approaches dear Readers, what kinds of emotions are you experiencing? Anxiety over future unknowns? Uncertainty about finances? Are health issues causing feelings of fear or frustration? Are you dealing with depression or grief over the loss of a loved one? My prayer is that no matter what your circumstances might be, you will be able to experience the joy of knowing that God loves you and of having a personal relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ. May your heart overflow with the joy that comes from walking daily with Him.

Happy, joyful New Year!

“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1Peter 1:8-9 NIV