Puppy love...

I didn't think they would notice...or understand.  But they did.

During a recent winter storm, I injured my hand.  It was immovable for days.  Yet the responsibilities of life continue and I didn't think much about it when taking care of our sweet puppies.  The hand was bandaged quite inconspicuous, or so I thought. 

The puppies had enjoyed eating and being petted as I used my healthier hand.  Just as I turned to leave, they both immediately approached my bandaged hand.  They were not seeking food or treats.  They were not wanting to play or be kissed.  They had a different idea.  They tenderly, cautiously and lovingly licked the uncovered part of my bandaged hand.  They noticed.  They approached me with tenderness.  They did their very best to soothe my pain. They cared.  They responded. 

Tears welled up in my eyes.  I began thinking.  If precious four-month-old puppies recognize and make an effort to help someone who is hurting, why don't we?  Why are we more interested in denying, ignoring, excusing, judging, dismissing or claiming we are too busy to care?  Although our puppies are young and have much to learn, it's safe to say that we can learn much from them.

If we are too busy to care, we are much too busy.  If we claim we care, we must respond to hurting hearts, broken bodies and wounded lives.  If we wear His name, it's time we treat each other with the same compassion He shared with others.  I thank Him for a simple reminder from puppy love and compassion.  I think it's time to go give Boomer and Beethoven a big hug...and let them know how much I love them, too.♥~thl

"I will restore them because I have compassion on them."  Zechariah 10: 6