Day 497

As I get ready to complete the day here on Guemes Island in Washington, I am feeling particularly grateful for the kindness of the people in the veterinarian’s office my friend Brenda and I took Chandler to this afternoon.

The office had an incredible energy about it, and although the waiting room was one of the smallest I’ve been in, there was a feeling of spaciousness. At one point, there were two labs, three chihuahuas, one Newfoundland, one Portuguese Water Dog, Chandler and a cat on his owner’s lap with only the benefit of a leash (no carrier). Add to that three staff people, nine pet owners and/or their friends and a small swamp cooler humming steadily, and one might think it would be a place to avoid.

Quite the contrary. What I felt when we arrived was a kindness among strangers. Not just among the humans, but between the animals, as well. The staff was calm, efficient and present to each of the interactions they engaged in. People conversed with ease; almost as if they were enjoying a visit in the park with one another. And the animals quietly rested as they awaited their turn with a vet. There was no barking, no pulling at leashes, no impatience. The vet who saw Chandler was soft spoken, and reassuring. She worked with a thoroughness that belied the number of patients still to be seen before the close of business.

As we rode the ferry back to the island, the beauty of the day surrounded us, and I found myself grateful for having had the experience of Peace in action.