Dad and I have never liked spending much time dwelling on my condition when I exited the crate; it seems that there is more than enough negative garbage being spewed by the media without any help from us. Instead, it has been our mission from the beginning to spread good news, because at the end of the day, there is no bad news, just varying degrees of good news, based totally on our perception.
But sometimes you have to remember where you’ve been to appreciate where you are, and, more importantly, where you’re going. Dad had to take a trip last weekend without me (for which he will pay, I assure you, as I am the Dark Mistress of Guilt), so I took up residence in Kat’s futon for the night. At my request, she took the above picture and sent it to dad(the first phase of the guilt attack!).
In times of stress, it seems I always revert to my previous habit of preparing to sleep by first curling my feet under me, conforming myself perfectly to fit the confines of the crate. As I relax, I then spread slowly across the bed like a hairy black octopus, or more appropriately, a encroaching lava flow engulfing everything in my path.
It’s important to note that this doesn’t happen when I’m feeling cocky and rambunctious, the vast majority of the time, but only during those dark episodes when I find myself lost in doubt. It’s then that I have to remind myself of what no longer confines me, of what I have been delivered from, and before you know it, I hear “the sound” that let’s me know that all is again right with the world.
What is “The Sound”? For me, it’s the bark of the bike as it pulls back into the driveway of the Casa. For dad, it’s the CHARK of the Lonesome Charlie, like the mournful wail of a distant lighthouse directing the ship to safe harbor.
Your sound is no doubt different, but I assure you that you have one, a clarion reminder of good times in the past and a forecaster of better times in the future. Regardless of how bleak things may seem, nothing is as bad as worrying about it; your own miracle will arrive on due season, but until then, strive to be someone else’s. At the least, it helps pass the time, and at the best, you are fulfilling your ministry.
Yo, dad! You got the coffee ready yet? We gots to GO!
Please share to if you care to; it’s how we spread the word!
It’s beautiful
The wrath of a women who is on a mission to bestow her guilt….Look out!
Such wise words, Dark Mistress of Guilt!!!
I love reading your posts, Charlie Bravo!!! You’re one lucky dog — and so is your family.
Very inspiring words!
Wow Charlie, your reading my mind. I need this lecture today.
She was missing dad, feeling insecure 🙁 bless her sweet heart!!!
Now reading your amazing book, sweet Charlie, and your words, as these ones, can really give courage.
“…if procrastination is ever a good thing, it’s when you can put off giving up for even one more second, which can grow into a minute, then a day, then a new lifetime.”
Great reminder. And, so we’ll put…I can almost hear her forlorn wail in my mind…makes me happy and sad all at the same time (but happy wins out…knowing her life today)…! Love your story and outlook on life!
Thanks Charlie and Dad – I needed to read this today! Life has thrown a series of curveballs at my house the last couple weeks and I’m grateful to you for sharing. And reminding that there is good out there! <3
How are you not earning serious money for these writings? And yes, I will share.
Someday, maybe… then again, it may not ever be about the money, some rewards aren’t tangible!
You are an outstanding individual!! A master of communication, a believer of what’s “right” and person who loves our furfamily members to no end!! Paws are raised to you in Thanks and blessings to you and your entire family!!!♡♡♡
Aww, Charlie. Sometimes I wake up with the past stomping on my chest so hard that I can barely draw a breath; I come up clawing and fighting, so I know just how you feel. There will always be the dark corners in your mind where memories and doubt lurk, but being loved and giving love sure can brighten up the majority of your days and keep the darkness at bay…
Stomp back!
Charles, you ALWAYS seem to know the right things to say at EXACTLY the right time! Chark on!
Nothing is as bad as worrying about it- these words came after every procedure during mom’s cancer, mastectomy, chemotherapy, hair loss, hysterectomy, dad’sangstectomy, all good now!
Charlie-such an inspiration-You&Dad.
Such wise words Charlie….the world can learn a lot from you……
Sweet Charlie!
You can never forget your past, but you can build an amazing future. Just look at what you’ve created Charlie, you’ve inspired 2 and 4 legged friends around the world.
My daughter has an Australian Cattle Dog. He’s just learnt to chark. Don’t be standing next to him when he does it. Good grief!
Charlie you need to write a book.
Thank you for the reminders.
Our rescue baby, Molly, has a sound too…when I come home from work in the evening and she hears me come through the front door, she barks and leaps in the air, overjoyed that her flock is all together again for the night. ☺️