One of my greatest friends was originally from Mexico, had short blonde hair, and loved to tongue kiss. Her name was Gizmo and she was a Jimmy Dean type sausage-shaped chihuahua and she would roll onto her white fur covered side whenever you went to show her affection. Not only did she love to lick, she loved and I believe lived to take care of the sick. She was partially responsible for my serendipitous meeting of my (now) wife and also a full-time doggy caretaker of me when I was surviving cancer - and later a companion for my father and mother during their battle against Lyme and now Alzheimer's Disease. Gizmo was much like most of our fur kids, totally unique and forgiving, full of love and wonder. She taught me a handful of life lessons and I think it is time for me to share them with you - in remembrance of her.
Every New Person You Meet is a Potential New Friend
All it took for Gizmo to like you was to meet you. As long as you did not have gloves on or a few other peculiarities, Gizmo was sure to greet you with a smile, a bark, and a barrel roll onto her plump treat filled belly. I am not suggesting that we greet new friends with hand licks and barrel rolls but I am suggesting that Gizmo had a bit of knowledge that I sometimes forget - Every person we meet is worth something and deserves a smile.
If you have ever had a dog you know that wonderful feeling you get when you walk into the house to a wagging tail, a moist tongue, and happy barks. You also know that terribly lonely feeling when that celebration no longer happens. Are there times in our lives when we forget to greet others with excitement and respect? It is amazing what a little positive energy can do for our relationships.
Don't Wait Until Tomorrow to Show Love
Call me cheesy but after the various life events, I have experienced I am beginning to understand that waiting until the time is right to show love and appreciation for people in our lives may be too long of a wait. One of my favorite things Gizmo would do for me when I was waking up from a chemo drunk nap was run up to my side and beg for me to pick her up. As soon as I did, the kisses came and soon I was more focused on this crazy chihuahua than I was my nausea.
Be a Loyal Companion
Often times the best we can offer someone is just a set of ears. No advice, no money, and no secret sauce - just listening. Gizmo used to sit by my side loyal as a, well - loyal as a dog. When I grew up, survived cancer, and got married Gizmo took to my father's side prompting him to throw a toy, take her out, or just rub her belly. She only offered ears to listen, no voice to respond from, and often times that was exactly what was needed. Are there times in life we need to offer only loyalty and a good set of ears?
Create Memories...Now
The final lesson little Gizmo taught me was to go ahead and create great memories, Now. Every day is a new adventure when you're a 10lb chihuahua. Maintain that adventurous spirit, be willing to go on walks, be excited about detours, and every once in a while - eat dessert.
My most loyal pal will forever be missed and when I look back on the many things she has taught me it literally brings a tear to my eye. Life will not be the same without Gizmo in it - and heaven will not be the same with her there. Rest in peace my little lady and thanks for teaching me to love now, create now, be loyal, and most of all - have fun.
What has your pup taught you about life?