Don't let anything keep you from struggling and seeking to be a decent, striving human being. It is where you are headed not where you are from
that will determine where you end up.

- Marian Wright Edelman, Founder of the Children's Defense Fund

Mistreated by his former owner, my little dog Jake
doubtless feels blessed to be in a loving home. But I feel more blessed to have him, primarily because he is such a great role model. It's funny, but I have learned quite a bit about myself, my family, and life
in general from my little four-legged friend. Jake was a stray, and it breaks my heart to think someone didn't want him and even worse, treated him so badly. We realized he had a terrible past while innocently holding a book or newspaper near him, for he would cower and shake as though we were going to beat him mercilessly.

The most lovable little fellow I have ever known, he has never met a stranger. He is as excited when he meets someone for the one hundredth time as he is for the very first time, and has a way of making you feel very special. As a matter of fact, I can't think of one person he doesn't like. Having had early traumatic experiences like his, I only wish that my trust of people had, like his, emerged unscathed.

On a few occasions I have been terribly sick, and Jake would lie near me with concerned eyes constantly watching. It seemed as though he
understood that I did not feel well and wanted to be there for me. Snuggling up to me, he would rest his little head on my arm and watch as I fell asleep. When I would awaken, he would still be there, watching with those big heartrending eyes. I'll never forget the time I was sick with a sinus infection and he brought his "squeaky" toy to me; dropping
it in front of me to play with, he was willing to give everything he had. I wish I was as selfless and giving.

There have been times when I have been upset with him and scolded him for something he should not have done, only to feel terrible afterwards because he would look at me with those loving eyes that begged forgiveness. And yet if I asked him to come to me, he would come running with excitement and wagging his tail like crazy. I wish I could forgive
as easily and as fast.

He always has time for his "Mommy" and "Daddy," and when we come home from work, he is so excited to see us. Never ashamed to show his love or
affection, he is always eager to give it freely. Whether it's playing games or lying around watching television, he acts as though his whole universe revolves around us, and he only wants to make us happy. If only I too could learn to make others feel that loved and needed.

When my grandmother passed away, it was Jake that comforted me when no one else was around. Somehow knowing I was in emotional pain, he stood
on his hind legs to get as close to me as possible. Whining and licking my face as I cried, he finally laid his little head on my shoulder. I sure wish I had as much compassion for others.

Someone once said: "My goal in life is to be the kind of person my dog thinks I am." Well, my goal in life is to be the kind of person that I know my dog is.

For a picture of Jake visit:
http://www.mikecollins.biz/jake.htm

By Mike Collins

Source: Mike Collins' E-Column, Mike is a syndicated columnist, broadcaster and author of Christian related material. To subscribe:
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