We all need someone to turn to when we feel stressed, overwhelmed, sad, confused or lonely. It helps to have an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold. Or, sometimes in my case, a waggy tail to cheer you up and plenty of fur for soft cuddles. I have wonderful friends and a solid support system but the one who is always there for me is Alfie, my Golden Retriever.
Alfie gives me unconditional love and his enthusiasm is boundless, as you can see on this video which I took this morning. If I go out, even for ten minutes, he is overjoyed when I come home. He protects us with all his fierceness from the bad postman who sticks dangerous bits of paper through the hole in the door most days, but when it thunders he needs the shelter of my bed, quaking and panting for hours and staying as close as possible to me.
I try not to post too much on my timeline about Alfie, as not everyone loves dogs, so he has is own, very positive, Facebook page which you can find here. I never tire of explaining, however, how much he enhances my life.
He is also one of my greatest teachers. Alfie lives in the present, doesn’t hold grudges, is grateful for the smallest gift (one piece of sweetcorn will make him very happy) and rests whenever he is tired. He sees the fun in everything and adores his people with a heart of gold. What a wonderful example!
Who do you turn to when you need support? Do you have a best friend who is always there for you? Tell me in the comments – I’d love to connect!
Wonderful! Such boundless enthusiasm. I’ve learnt so much from dogs, especially Lucy, my friend’s black Labrador guide dog. I had never felt so adored!
Reg and Ruby my neighbours cats have amazing for me. Always there at difficult times. They even helped me over a twenty year cat allergy.
I’m moving house tomorrow and will miss them very much.. I feel I’m ready to be open for comfort in other ways now I’m stronger and not so needy,
I’m thinking of you as you move house today Rosemary. Moving on can be hard especially when there are goodbyes to be said, but I am sure you will find new furry friends. Thanks for taking the time to comment when you are so busy xx
Love your post about Alfie.
I would love to have an Alfie of my own. He’s beautiful!
One day….!
:-)
Thank you! Alfie sends you love and golden cuddles. If you came to visit me he would pay you so much attention and you would go home covered in spare golden hairs – he has plenty!