Chandler and a couple of the other dogs sat in the sunlight by a window this morning, and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to take this photograph. The dog on the left is Sophie, and on the right is Marley. Chandler has adapted fairly well to being in the busy, densely populated dachshund community here at the ranch, and she gets along quite well with these two.
I love the gift of observation. There is a total sense of presence in the act of observing that comes from not knowing what is going to happen, and by not being worried about it when in does. I know I’ve said this before, but I feel fortunate to have Chandler in my life.
As I thought about community today, I considered the way that Chandler lets the other dogs know when she wants more space or doesn’t want to play. It begins with a slight warning growl, followed by a high pitched single bark, which is usually enough to get them to back off. And, there is the proverbial wagging tail accompanied by quick, hopping steps alongside another dog when she is enjoying their company.
I feel as if authentic communication is a Peaceful, open-hearted start to finding Peace within our communities. Surely there will be times when we find someone that we are cautious about interacting with. Our responsibility is to communicate that energy to the other person, and to attempt to align on a way to communicate that will invite connection that is free from judgement, shame, blame and other limiting behaviors.
Today, I will seek Peace through authentic communication, and, I will stay long enough to see it in others.