Thursday, February 28, 2013

That pivotal, incredible moment...


It's a unique turning point when your puppy suddenly realises that 
YOU are their life’s purpose! ...

I wonder how many people have experienced this as profoundly as I have. And Lexi gave it to me yesterday. My heart melted.

The moment is almost indescribable – I’ve been giving it serious thought since then because I need to share it on this blog. It’s as special as a baby taking its first steps.  But this time, it happens with a puppy. Your own puppy!  You’ll miss it if you are not watching.  It happens so fast, but it is a definite communication with you, and you are lucky if you witness it

Weeks have gone by with all the happenings of puppyhood.  I’ve dedicated time and energy towards this tiny, young, living creature.  I’ve harnessed my patience; my knowledge; my purpose; my love – all with the goal of nurturing our young Lexi.  Then suddenly it happens and it's profound!

My thoughts have been dancing around this particular notion.  I’ve tried hard to put it into words in order to be able to explain it to those who have not had the privilege of experiencing it…

This 'moment' is a culmination of the time you have spent with your young puppy.  It’s a coming together of two very different species and it seals the vulnerable bond in the early stages of this partnership.  It happens in the blink of an eye – literally - with merely a glance your way. But then it is followed by a few minutes of utter, static adoration from your young companion - her attention is directed totally at you in awe and wonder.



 “My prayer is to be as good a human being as my dog thinks I am.”

It’s a pivotal moment.  You’ll miss it if you’re not attentive. It happens suddenly and you see it in their eyes – like a light bulb experiencing the joy of illumination.  Their expression exudes adoration, admiration, trust, faith, love all mixed up with a measure of surprise.  It’s the  bridge of understanding laid down between a human being and his/her dog.

From this particular moment onwards, your relationship with your dog will soar.  She is ready – to focus on you, to learn from you, to work for you, to share your life with you. She will take whatever comes her way – her trust is unconditional.

I must have done something good…


17 comments:

Unknown said...

What a wonderful, insightful, beautiful post! I got goosebumps. I LOVE the pictures of Lexi.

I recently started a "San Diego Golden Retriever Meetup Group" facebook page. Would you mind if I shared your post there? I think it would be wonderful to share with more Golden lovers.

xoxo
Sue

kks said...

so true and such a beautiful time of bonding!
xoxo

kks said...

so true and such a beautiful time of bonding!
xoxo

Angels Amber and Max DaWeenie and Mom said...

There is just something in that picture that's different from the rest. It's like a glimpse of what Lexi will look like as she grows up. The puppy expression is fading and her true beauty is being exposed. Puppies just seem to grow up too fast. But what a wonderful future is waiting for both of you.

Millie and Walter said...

Lexi is such a sweetie!

Cindy

Two French Bulldogs said...

Experiencing a puppy is incredible
Benny & Lily

My Dog Sam - Ruptured Disk said...

Hi Maxmom, you're absolutely right. I think that my mom and dad have seen that "moment" with most of our pack. We're glad that you saw that moment too.

WFT Nobby said...

What a beautiful description! I can't say I ever experienced such a moment with Bertie, and am not at all sure that he considers me his life's purpose! Perhaps it's the difference between a terrier and a retriever. Or that his eyes are deep set and his face harder to read. I tend to think Bertie expresses himself rather through his whole body stance and actions. Anyway I am delighted with Bertie the way he is, and am also delighted that Lexi is proving such an all round joy.
Cheers, Gail.

MySpecialDoggies said...

I agree with you Caryl - had that "moment" with Neeli a few years ago (and it's deepened with each day) and now with 10 month old Elle!

Woofs
Nadine & goldens Neeli & Elle

Mary Lou said...

MAXMOM....
I've been a stranger in these parts of Blogville--again!!--it feels so good to be back!! ;-D
Lexi is growing up and maturing into a wonderful companion!! Thank-you for sharing this story!! ;op
Love, Raelyn.... Plus Rose, my BEAUTIFULLY UNIQUE "Mystery Dog"!!

Molly the Airedale said...

Lexi is so beautiful and we are so happy for you, MaxMom!

Love ya lots,
Mitch and Molly

Mrs. JP said...

Very well said Caryl. That moment is so special and tangible.
Lexi's eyes capture me. You can see all the way into her big, mischievous, adoring heart. You've definitely pegged her correctly,,,she's a sunbeam. Which, by the way, I need right now since we're below freezing and expecting snow. So she warms my heart.

Tweedles -- that's me said...

Those moments live forever in your heart.
love
tweedles

Asta said...

A twoo moment of wondew and magic. I'm sowwy I haven't been hewe to welcome little Lexi befowr, but so happy to have seen this
Smoochie kisses
Asta and Mommi

Piappies World said...

We are enjoying as we watch Lexi grow up and she sure grows up so fast. Make the most of every moment, MaxMom! We are with you all the way.

Love,
Piappies Fudgie, Princess, Frappie, Mocha, Sugar, Wai-Max, Wai-Pai & Forgie

STELLA and RORY from Down Under said...

Beautiful post Caryl. Your little Lexi is adorable and we're so happy everything is going so well. Enjoy your weekend. No worries, and love, Carol (and Stella and Rory)

Becky Andrews said...

Oh so sweet and magical. Thank you for sharing :)!