I have always been a dog person and after just a couple days of watching Maddie, I think I'll always and forever be a dog person.
But maybe my dog loving is sort of... well, selfish. If I really think about it, what do I love about dogs? I love that I am the center of their universe. They love me for all the things I do (food, water, attention, petting) but also for all the things that I don't even try to do (being in the same room, being around, driving them places that I'm going already).
Maddie doesn't get bored with me. Sure, she may wander away to find food or a stick or a toy, but the minute I stir, get up, walk across the room, flip the page in my book, type on the computer, she is attentive and concerned in the matter. Not to mention, she is always ready for an adventure. I've never decided to go walk around the yard or go somewhere when Maddie has told me she's too busy or she'd rather not. Nope, arthritis and all, she wants to walk next to my heels and explore with me. She makes me feel like what I'm doing is the most important part of her day. All the time. Consistency. Loyalty. Isn't this what we're all looking for in another person?
She completely ignores the ugly parts of my personality. She'd still look at me and smile that sweet golden retriever smile despite my messy hair and morning breath. She doesn't care if I'm crying or singing, she'll sit in my lap and pant and be perfectly content to be with me. She doesn't get bitter when I leave for longer than expected. She doesn't care if I wake her up in the middle of the night. She doesn't hold a grudge when I promise to do something with her and then don't follow through.
If all I have to give in return is a little grace for dog-breath, drool, and the occasional scratch, then it's worth it. Because, to have that kind of friend is something that I dream of - that we all dream of. And to be that kind of friend? Well, I'm pretty sure I'll be working at that for the better part of my life.
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