One of my goals this year is to improve my mindfulness and gratitude practices. Often times, we get so caught up in the things we don't have that we forget to be grateful for what we do have.
As a 30 year old woman, I often feel worried or worried about where I “should be” in life, rather than just feeling happy and accepting where I am as a great blessing.
One way I try to reframe things for myself is to look at them through the eyes of our animals. We can learn a lot from them, especially dogs.
They're always so caring and happy, no matter what terrible life you've given them - and that's admirable. They understand how to be happy in the present because they are alive, rather than worrying about the future. One puppy with a tear-out eye was a prime example of this.
The poor animal had an accident that resulted in his eye being torn out. Local residents noticed the dog in distress and took him to a local shrine so rescuers from Animal Aid Unlimited could pick him up. But it was the puppy's behavior that stood out.
His tail never stopped wagging despite the severe injury which was clearly painful. In fact, while waiting for rescuers to arrive, the pup never stopped putting on a brave, happy face, eager to make friends with anyone near him.
It was very touching and sweet. The happy boy was completely submissive and didn't make a fuss about being brought into their facility when rescuers came.
Sunny, as the dog was eventually named, certainly lives up to his name. Despite the difficulties he faces, he has a bright and energetic attitude.
We are relieved that, even though the vets were unable to restore his eye, he has been able to live the happy life he deserves. Sunny's example may help us stay positive in difficult times.
Watch the video below, but beware: it is graphic in terms of the dog's eye injury: