Something to Cherish...Something to Remember

I've always been a big fan of pets. My Dad is allergic to cats so, as a little girl, I had to borrow the neighbors kittens whenever possible. I didn't have a cat of my own until I moved out...which turned into 6 cats that were all lost, strays, unwanted, etc. We made quite a little family of misfits!
These days I have 2 cats and a 6 month old puppy and I'm fully aware of how much they depend on my husband and I to make sure they are safe, well-fed and healthy. When I received the following in an email yesterday I knew I had to pass it on...and I hope you do the same.


A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS..........
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to
be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment.
You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only
you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your
voice, when speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you,
and yet, I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy, or uncooperative, ask yourself if
something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food,
I have been in the sun too long, or, my heart might be getting old, or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.
10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you
can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier
for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Smile!

It's a beautiful day. Blue sky. Sunshine. Happiness.
Today I lived like a monk...kind of. I read that Tibetan monks practice mindfulness by focusing on one thing each day. For example, every time they open a door or every time they take a drink of water or every time they smile. I particularly like that last one so every time I smiled today I paid particular attention to the details.
Who was I smiling at?
Why was I smiling?
How did my face feel smiling?
Did people smile back?
What I discovered was that there is actually a smile in every moment. Even my dog smiles when I walk in the door. I think each moment IS a smile.
When I was younger I was very impatient...okay pushy. I was also very curious which got me into lots of trouble and I always had the right answers. Truth is, when I look back at that young lady I see a very lost, searching soul with no idea where to land.
Honestly, what I know now is that we never have to get caught up in the frenzy of the day...the day is perfect as it is...smiling back at you with all the Universal power it can muster. All we have to do is be mindful enough to see it!