Doggy Serotonin: Or How to Let the Love In
Macho likes to be under the blankets. photo: Juanita MORE!
Lately I've noticed an extra level of thoughtful care from - and between - many of my friends. I'm seeing longer, stronger, love-filled hugs. People are asking each other, "How are you doing?" and meaning it.
The state of the world, the upcoming election, and our collective exhaustion from the past few years are certainly cause to pause and reflect. Many of us, myself included, find ourselves taking deep breaths before making our next decision, our next move, or simply before starting a conversation.
But when I wake up each morning, the first thing I see is my pup Macho peeking his furry head up from under his blanket on my bed, eyes full of love, wondering if it’s time to get up and start the day or just roll over and go back to sleep. That morning dose of doggy serotonin is pure joy.
For many of us, the unconditional love we receive from our pets is the most rewarding feeling in the world. Now I do realize that everyone is not a dog person. I have many cat, bird, and snake lovers in my life, and I'm sure they love their pets too. But this dog love stuff is the real deal. So when someone asks me, "Juanita, how are you doing?” and I know it comes from their heart, I simply tell them my morning Macho story.
Of course, once the day starts, social media and the news conspire to chip away at the love I just received from my little guy. Still, there are many moments throughout the day when friends poke me with funny memes or sassy texts. These things brighten my day and add much needed laughter, and I appreciate getting them. Sometimes, friends ask if I’ve heard the news or the latest gossip. Other times, the memes or jokes represent our world's problems and are full of anger and frustration. I also understand that very well.
But wherever you are, whatever you are doing, know that I’m sending love to you during this month of thanksgiving (to most of you, anyway). Your existence matters and makes a difference in our world. Keep moving forward and doing your best because that is enough. Rest, recharge, hug your friends, and allow the love that pops into your life to encompass you.
This morning, Macho woke me up at 5:30 a.m., letting me know he had to go out. So we went out back, and he pooped, not once but twice. Good boy! We came back into the apartment and got back in bed.
Later, while I was making coffee, he decided he needed to poop again and did so right in the middle of my bed on my white comforter. I still love him. And that’s as it should be.