Overnight, I slept through the night oblivious to sleet, blowing snow and then freezing rain that was blanketing our city! Our dog Duncan woke me with a nudge, telling me it was time to go for a walk. I shuddered to think about dragging out my winter boots, but I bundled up in my winter gear and headed out with Duncan. “It’s miserable out here!”, I said as I looked between my dog and the big dark clouds, But he just wagged his tail and tilted his head at me.
Pulling my hood further down over my brow to keep the stinging freezing rain and snow from my eyes, I caught a glimpse of Duncan jumping from side to side along the trail indulging in the snow. I caught myself smiling, then reflecting on the beautiful energy radiating from my sweet canine friend. I felt a change in my mood as his incredible spirit connected to mine. I started to notice the snow-laden trees, shrubs and grasses, remembering just how much I enjoyed the snowfalls of winter.
Duncan spotted another dog in the distance and broke into a full gallop to meet his friend. There was a brief rubbing of noses as they greeted each other, then Duncan’s friend got down on his front paws in anticipation of a game of ‘catch me if you can’, and away they went.
My spirit lifted way beyond what I thought was possible, given the weather circumstances. However, the circumstances were perfect for gratitude. I remembered that gifts come in the strangest ways, and that I was well and able to bear witness to wonderful moments in this winter wonderland with my best friend, Duncan.
