Lucky’s Lead on Living a Good Life

Less than a week after his 16th birthday, our sweet boy, Lucky, let us know it was time to say goodbye. 

Lucky was my first dog as an adult. I adopted him when he was three and a half months old and had the utter pleasure of loving him all those precious years. {I consider myself incredibly Lucky!}

Lucky was one of my greatest teachers. He taught me so much about love and life. 

To honor him today I thought I would share some of those lessons with you. 

Lucky's Principles for Living a Good Life

1. ALWAYS TRUST

Lucky knew in every cell of his being that he was provided for. 

We never had a doggie door, so if he wanted to go outside he would stand in front of the sliding glass door and trust that we would see him and let him out and in. He didn't even bark to let us know he needed to go until his last year when his body needed a faster response.

He waited patiently. Hardly ever for very long because we were aware of his needs.

Even in his last days he knew we would honor his timing (and not ours). He gave himself to us fully, without resistance. He laid on Vince's lap, eating prosciutto, listening to music, surrounded by angels seen and unseen welcoming him home.

We all have an opportunity to give ourselves more fully to Love without resistance. Love is loving us all the time, even when we feel like we are waiting forever and our impatience gets the best of us. Even when we're in our bleakest, grief, Love is still available. (It has been for us every day since Lucky left.)

If you're feeling unseen and unmet by Life lately, maybe take a play from Lucky's playbook and trust that the Universe is conspiring for you in the pause. (How might that be true? Asking that question may help you see something new.)

2. MAKE PEOPLE FEEL SPECIAL

Lucky greeted everyone who entered our house with a toy and tail wags. If he didn't have a toy, he would lightly take their hand in his mouth as if to say, “Welcome. I'm so happy you're here.”

One of my dear friends reminded me of a time when we were roommates. She would come home late at night after work and Lucky would still greet her with a toy, his eyes barely open!

If that's not an expression of love, I don't know what is.

I invite you to make a point today to see and acknowledge someone in your world. Could be someone you know or even a stranger. 

I trust you to know who and when. Love will nudge you.

3. ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT

Lucky was very clear about his wants and wasn't afraid to ask for them.

His favorite sleeping position was between our legs. Every evening—no matter the human who was with him (pet sitters included—which made for funny stories!)—he would paw at our legs for us to open them so he could get into his sleeping position.

On walks he would come back towards us and look at our hands to signal he was ready for a treat. In his final days he would stop moving until he got his boiled chicken.

He was unapologetic and didn't care what anyone thought of him. He communicated clearly and for the most part, got what he wanted every time.

Is there something you want that you haven't asked for?

FYI: Disappointment can be an indicator of an unspoken expectation or desire. Maybe look there…

4. REST WHEN YOU NEED IT

If naps were a sport, Lucky would win every time. His connection to his body—like most animals—was strong. When it was time to rest, he did. No matter what was going on around him. 

During parties he would pass out on the couch beside our guests. Loud actions movies didn't stand a chance. His snores would override the thunderous booms—especially in his later years.

He had no fear of missing out or concern that he didn't earn his nap. He easily let himself have what he needed.

Rest isn't viewed as highly valuable in many cultures. Not yet anyway.

You can be a part of creating a new narrative by allowing yourself to have it. Doing so will also demonstrate how valuable rest truly is.

I invite you to take Lucky's Principles into your day and test them out for yourself. This way he gets to live on through you.

Our hearts are very tender (including our other dog, Matzah) as we adjust to life now. Each day gets a little lighter—especially knowing Lucky is shining his love on all of us from afar.

With loving,
Amber

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