As many of you know, I am not a pet lover. I prefer them at a distance and definitely not in the house, if they are of the shedding variety. However, when I was young, I saw many cats and dogs come and go on the farm. I admit I did my share of cuddling the cats and talking to the dogs and even sneaking them into the house when Mom had her back turned.
More recently, I realized I actually have a fear of dogs. A few closeups with less than kindly beasts left me trembling and thinking all dogs are to be feared. So for the most part, I avoid them.
Some time back I started getting milk from a different farm than before. The first time I drove up, two large dogs came running up to my car door. There was this sinking feeling and a pit in my stomach. What am I going to do??! I summoned up my courage and opened the door, trying to ignore these huge beasts as I hurried inside. They didn't do a thing except look at me, but still...
Every time I went to get milk after that, I would desperately hope the dogs wouldn't hear me and stay away, which usually didn't happen. Then there were several times I went when the dogs didn't make an appearance. I began to miss them and wished they would show up again. This week they did!
As I drove in the lane I wasn't thinking of dogs at all and didn't notice any. However, when I opened my car door there they stood grinning broadly!:) I smiled back, patted their heads and cooed over them. I felt welcomed and comforted. They were just nice and friendly and I wondered why I had been scared.
It's got me thinking...I guess I shouldn't put all dogs in one box for, if I do, I may miss out on something good. Is it the same way with people? Because of being hurt and misunderstood it can make me feel afraid and I go into hiding, not realizing all the goodness God has in friends and relationships.
What if I would see dogs as friends, not enemies? What if I would see people as friends, not enemies?
What if???
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