We have a new puppy in our house. Jade is a one year old german shepherd who joined our family about 3 months ago. We were not looking for another pet, but Jade captured our hearts as soon as we saw her, and we made plans to make her ours.
Jade is from a rescue organization, apparently she has quite an abusive background, but no specific information was given to us. She tends to be very skittish most of the time, making frequent excursions to her kennel in the basement just to be safe. I am home more than anyone else, so naturally Jade has become more comfortable with me, but as soon as someone else enters our home, she panics.
We have noticed that she can have several ‘good’ days, making us feel like she is feeling at home with our large, chaotic family. Then suddenly she has a bad day, seeming to be terrified of everything. This behavior can be very frustrating to our family because we have spent a good deal of time trying to coax, love and win Jade over, and yet it feels like she doesn’t trust any of us.
It occurred to me that maybe I have something to learn from this adorable puppy.
- Like Jade, I can be skittish at times, even with people I know who love me.
- I often have ‘good’ days, doing the right things and thinking the right ways, and then I blow it. For no apparent reason.
- Even though I know I should, sometimes I don’t trust those who love me most and want what’s best for me.
All we can do is to be patient with Jade and continue to show her love, even when she doesn’t give anything in return, especially then. I’m thankful that we have a wonderful model for this.
But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Psalm 86:15
howsyourlovelife 
🙂