Familiarity In The Midst Of Change: the importance of an old friend
I came to an interesting realization the other day as I was wiping off Cooper’s paws and bringing him into the house after being outside in the rain and muck. I realized that in the midst of all of the change that I have been facing with a new job and especially a new baby, there is something familiar and comforting about the relationship that I have with my dog.
Now if you’ve never had a pet who truly was a member of the family this may not make sense. But if you have, you probably can relate to the following sentiments.
As the saying goes, “dog is man’s best friend” and while that is not completely true, it is also not entirely false. In my case I dreamt of having a golden retriever from the time I was a little boy. It was my dream dog and every year for Christmas I hoped that I would be surprised with a puppy of my own. Unfortunately that never transpired…although my parents let me get a ferret, go figure.
However after nearly a year of marriage Monika and I got Cooper and for almost five years, he has been the third member of our family and an important part of my life.
A few months back Cooper had a serious infection in his neck that the veterinarian though would require surgery. Nearly $2000.00 worth. While I never would have expected to be willing to pay such an astronomical sum of money to keep a pet alive, I would have done it if he hadn’t gotten better.
I would have paid it because I wanted Ella to experience what it’s like to have a a dog. A Golden Retriever like I so desperately longed for as a child. I would have paid it because Cooper has become such an integral part of our little family. I would have paid it because he’s become like an old friend.
And as I experience so much newness in my life, I am coming to really appreciate just how valuable that old friend is.
He’s been around the block with me (figuratively and literally). He shows undying devotion. Our relationship has stayed the same over the years. And truthfully, that familiarity means a lot right now.
I also greatly appreciate his quirkiness. See below.
Posted on March 2nd, 2011 by David | 5 Comments »
David,
I know exactly what you mean. We have had a couple of dogs in our marriage and really have been a major part of our life. Even today Tina brings her dog over tovisit and she is a joy. Just like another grandkid.
What a great story. We had a number of dogs and pets growing up and I loved it, but at this point I’m afraid my kids tell the same story as you some day.
I absolutely do not want any pets. I already have two children.
This might change as the kids are older and can help care for a cat or dog, but right now? No way.
LOL I can understand that KC. It is definitely a lot of work…although now that we have Ella it seems like much less work that before. haha.
Nevertheless, your point is well taken. It would just be one more thing to have to manage within your already busy schedule.
What mean parents you had.
I don’t know about mean…they just didn’t let me get my pooch. haha