What does it mean to embrace every moment? Don’t we already do that? For many, I think not. I know for myself, many moments pass by that don’t get embraced. That may be the case for you.

There are many moments in life that happen and should be embraced, appreciated and recognized. through much personal development over the years, I have been able to benefit from many of these. Things that some people may take for granted. I know I did in the past.

My beloved German Shepherd, Owen, taught me what it is like to embrace the simple things. Just with a soulful look into his eyes, or a mere tail wag, could make you forget about the drama of the day. He would help bring a smile to your face and a calm to your  space, just by being in the room with you.

He often made you feel like you were the most important person on the planet and that you were appreciated and loved. With a paw on your knee or nudge with his head, he could make you remember to take time for play and forget about work for awhile. Other times he would just rest at your feet and that would turn a “get up a get going, there is so much to do today” cup of coffee into a “isn’t life great and beautiful? I love Mondays!” sort of moment.

Owen certainly had a way with teaching, mentoring and friending. Just ask any of the students learning to become veterinarians.

Yes, Owen taught many of us about embracing life’s moments. But I don’t think everyone needs to have an Owen in their house to help them do so. I just think you need to take the time to do so.

Start your day with thoughts and words of gratitude and appreciation before anything else. “Thank you for…” “I’m so grateful I get to…” Practice this, and many moments will appear before you and remind you to embrace them. Whether it’s a call from a friend, drive through the country, a purring feline, or cup of coffee with a canine companion. Those are the moments to absorb, recognize and appreciate.

I recently saw a post about lessons dogs can teach us and I thought I would share a few of them that Owen really embraced!

• Live simply Love generously Care deeply Speak kindly
• When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
• Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
• Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
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Take naps, stretch before rising Run, romp, and play daily.
• Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
• When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
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Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
• Be loyal.
• Never pretend to be something you’re not.

Thank you, Owen, for the many lessons you taught us over the years. And thank you for all of the incredible moments you so generously gave to many many humans and animals. You were one amazing son.

Thank you, Beachbody, for enabling me to have the means and time to spend so many extended, wonderful years and moments with this amazing German Shepherd.