After experiencing the loss of a beloved pet over the past weekend, I learned that it is best to live, love, and lead by example. I know it is difficult to see the link between death and leading by example, but bear with me. I promise. I will get there.
Our Beloved Pet
On my 40th birthday, a neighbor’s neglected dog entered our home. After a day of explosive diarrhea and a hemorrhagic heat resulting in a life-saving hysterectomy, she ended up being the best pet I have ever cared for. She put herself in harm’s way to protect us. She cuddled us when we were feeling down. She nurtured all other creatures that entered our home. She would listen to all requests and commands with rare failure to comply. I think she understood English (and some Spanish).
Crossing the Bridge
Fourteen-and-a-half years later, Shala’s seventeen years of life were rapidly winding down. My son and I had to make the decision to euthanize. Unfortunately, the drive to the vet was long and the dog was restless. As a result, I asked my son to join me. Being a novice in this type of situation, he felt hesitant to participate. Never-the-less, he helped me transport and comfort our beloved pet.
Closure
After the visit to the vet, we buried our pet. With strength and love, Jess shoveled dirt and marked the grave with a beautiful cross. His fear had turned to caring, love, and appreciation of closure.
Live, love, and lead by example
Once home, my boy thanked me for making him go. I then informed him that he made the choice to go. I also remined him of an interaction that took place between his grandfather and I many years earlier. Once, as my father sat watching my son play, he turned to me and said: “You are raising a good person. Now, I know I did not need to be so hard on you”. Which is a story in itself. But before I digress any further, I told my son that his behavior in this situation proved my father right.
The Punch Line
Without missing a beat, my son kindly replied: “Mom, I think I’m a good person because you are a good person. You have always led by example.” Despite the sad situation requiring lots of tissues and emotionally supportive essential oils (http://www.mydoterra.com/denisekuhn), his comment made my heart soar.
I’ve always held the belief that is is not what we say to our children that impresses them, it is what we show our children that impresses them. Now, I know it’s true.
To go a step further, I also believe that this philosophy extends beyond our personal life. It is also true for business and everything else we do. If we want people to treat us kindly, be kind. If we want people to work hard for us, work hard. If we want people around us to be healthy, practice good health. Just remember, Mark Twain was right: “Few things are harder to put up with than the annoyance of a good example.”
