Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Ever scared of a storm?

Our fearless leader, Bruno, our rat terrier, is terrified of thunder. When the thunder starts booming he creeps to the door, begging for help to come inside and get away from the storm. My husband always laughs at Bruno and makes fun of him for being afraid. I love this quality about Bruno because he really becomes human to me when I realize he gets scared too. I always let him in and offer him comfort. As the storm passes, his heart slows down and he starts to relax. This 28 lb terror of cats, dogs, birds and any other unfortunate creature that comes in our yard has a weakness. Thunder and firecrackers. We can learn so much from animals. Bruno is not worried about us knowing he is scared. He just wants to get in and get help. He doesn't even care if the storm passes or nothing ever happens to him, he knows it is safer inside with his family. Our children need to know that when storms are brewing outside they can come in for support, answers, consequences and unconditional love. Always. Everytime. Maybe all they need is to come in, sit down, talk it out and search for God given wisdom. The catch here? Never make our children feel less about themselves if they are afraid. Never laugh at their uncertainty. Never shut the door. After the storm passes, Bruno is ready to go back outside and chase the critters. He is once again fearless. His bark is strong again as he assumes his post on the front porch. All is well. I never mention his fearful episode to him and he knows I will always open the door. We have an agreement.

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