OK, I have finally become "that guy". That guy who refers to his pet as a member of the family. I have had, and enjoyed, dogs all my life. We've had pound puppies, beautiful labs and currently have an English Mastiff named Hoss. (Also a pig named Luvy, but that's another story.) Although I have enjoyed having a dog around, I have never been overly attached. I mean after all, its just a dog, right? You throw a few sticks, visit a few dog parks, provide food and water, and let them sleep in the basement on the coldest nights of the year. Well two weeks ago I did something I said I would never do. I bought an "inside" dog. I have never owned an animal that I had to share "living space" with. But, as a gift to my youngest daughter, we got a Chihuahua. Yes, I said a 1lb. "Taco Bell" Chihuahua. I am amazed at how quickly this little dog has etched his own place in all our hearts. In so much that he has become the third part of my, "Honey I'm home" routine. I kiss my wife, greet the kids, and, now, ask "Where's Fer-Ja. (His nickname). See there, He even has a nickname. (so as not to get it confused with his "legal" name....I guess). Why should I care where he is or how his day has been. He's just a dog for goodness sake! This hyper-attachment has been so evident that I had to take some time to consider; "Why such a difference?" I have concluded that the "active ingredient" concerning our increased affection is due to the fact that Ferocio is an INSIDE dog. I have long been convinced that relationships take on a whole new dynamic when we invite those people into our homes. I guess I never thought it would apply to the animal kingdom, but evidently it does. Senor Ferocio Jaspero ( I know, I know) has been a fresh reminder that our homes can be an accelerator for almost any kind of relationship. Since home is where the heart is. Those invited into our home share a special place in our heart.
2 comments:
Randall, I really enjoyed your blog today. I also read all of the other articles you have posted over the past couple of years you have had your blogspot. I want you to know that your blogs have been very good. I have found them to not only be inspirational, but simply thought provoking, well written and grammatically sound. I took the liberty to read the comments left by others and my heart goes out to some of those people who simply "don't get it" and yet feel the liberty to "bash a brother in the name of Jesus." They were around at the time of Christ and they will be here bashing when the trumpet sounds I'm afraid. I pray for them. I sincerely want them to know the freedom and wonder that comes to believers when they choose to break free from the chains of self righteousness. I was so proud of my "convictions and standards" all of my "soul winning stats" and all the time I was miserable. Well, now I live free and can share the joy of Christ and see results and I don't have to worry about the results, numbers and the stats to fill out a weekly report for my church. It is good to find your blog and a privileg to pray for your nay-sayers!
Hey Steven, Thanks for the compliments and encouraging words. I loved your thoughts about breaking free from the "chains of self righteousness". I've never thought of self righteousness as a bondage, but it sure is. And how wonderful it is to break free and not to have to pretend to be something your not. I know God wants us all to grow, but isn't it wonderful how he allows each of us to grow in our own way and doesn't expect us all to be fitted to the same mold.
Anyway, Thanks again,
Post a Comment