Sometimes, when Chandler barks at something she sees, it startles me, and I find myself raising my voice to try and get her to stop barking. I am reacting to her barking out of fear. Of course, louder is not more effective. When I remember to take a breath and address her with a softness in my tone, she is more responsive. It also takes significantly less time for her to settle when I approach her with gentleness .
Today, I found myself thinking of my interactions with Chandler as a metaphor for my interactions with others. When I greet people with eye contact and a smile, I am usually greeted in the same manner. From this place, trust can be developed, and the relationship can grow and change. However, when I “bark” at someone, one of two things happens. Either the other person “barks” back, or they make themselves small. This type of interaction unbalanced and unsustainable.
For this Peace Walker, the lesson I am reminded of through my interaction with Chandler is that I will receive what I give. When I give myself a moment to breathe into what I say and how I say it, I can choose to be Peaceful. I can express myself from a place of Peace, creating space for community.
My dog is often my teacher. My job is to receive the lesson.