Yesterday was a beautiful day here in the Bay area. We're been in a steady rhythm of fog in the morning, clearing midday and then fog again mid evening...it's actually been very nice. The daytime sunshine is bright and the skies so crisp and clear. I was invited to a special event on behalf of a PR client...a graduation ceremony honoring new guide dogs and companions, at Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael. It's a very special organization that began after WW2 to train and provide companion dogs for blinded servicemen coming home from war. It's grown today to one of the largest in the country, and today they breed, raise, train and pair the dogs with partners for life, or at least until the dogs are ready to retire back to the organization in a foster home for seniors.
As I watched, bathed in sunshine, watching the puppies in training frolic as the proud graduates stood on stage looking confident and regal, I wondered what the blind must see. I'm sure they can feel the warmth of the sun on their faces...does it resemble lightness? Without our sense of sight, what else might we smell, and hear and otherwise sense? The new person graduates spoke about trust, and the level of connection it requires to put your faith in a dog to guide you through obstacles. Their three-week stay on campus working with the dogs was just a precursor to the true test...their first outings alone as a team.
I suppose that anticipation of unchartered waters is top of mind for many at this time of year. My Sophie has taken yet another big step toward achieving her dreams. Heading off confidently to college in a new town, thankfully with one of her besties in tow! I am so grateful and incredulous to see this young beautiful woman take on all that life has to offer. Sophie, I hope your experiences are plentiful, your intellect sufficiently stimulated, and that your body continues to grow in its expression of your enormous talent and passion.
Who can't recall the preparations for a new school year? Parey's favorite day of every year I think was school supply shopping day! She would shop for hours to select just the right collection of notebooks, pens, pencil box and back pack. What I wouldn't give to be heading off again for just one more day to North Avondale, or Cincinnati Waldorf School. But, then again, seeing both of my girls as they are today, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
So think about the sun the next time you're in it. Close your eyes and feel the warm glow across your face. Be grateful for it's light, and for the grace to see it. Share it with your loved ones today...both furry and non-furry. I will, each and every day.
Wag more. Bark less.
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