Kids!

I've just been out for my daily dog walk. Today I had extra time and felt like getting out to see what's up in the neighborhood. Our usual walk takes us past 2 different parks, each at the farthest point of our walk. At the second park, there's a playground that is almost always empty and silent when we pass. Today though, it was filled with delighted screams and laughter from a bunch of preschool aged kids. I heard a roar of excitement and a rushing of feet on the grass, and then a chorus of 'does he bite?' from 5 anxious and excited little souls. To look in their wide open and friendly eyes was the first blessing. I assured them that the dog was safe to approach, and they ran quickly to surround her with love. They shouted questions, and comments, and reacted to my answers with joy and unbridled laughter, and more questions and comments. They asked about other pets, and screamed ecstatically when I mentioned my 2 cats. Two of the boys spoke very little english, but more than made up for the lack with their enthusiasm and open hearts. These were yet another new generation of souls eager to understand and experience whatever comes their way. My dog was kind and patient, and when it was time to leave, one of the girls kissed the dog on the lips goodbye. A boy kissed the dog on her back. The kids ran alongside the dog for a few yards, and then veered off, back to the playground. I found the experience to be a great inspiration, very touching and uplifting. It makes me feel good to see and hear such openhearted joy, and gives me hope for the future. That was the second blessing.