I woke to the sound of a thumping tail. A pair of big brown eyes and even bigger ears stared back at me and listened intently for the slightest movement from across the room.
Despite being a self-professed dog lover, waking up to the unrequited love of a puppy is not something I often have the pleasure of experiencing. Every now and then though, I do get to play ‘Dog Mom’ for one of my good friend’s canine companions, Lemon (or Lem, for short).
She is a welcome reminder of what it means to put someone (or some critter!) before yourself. While reasonably obedient (she knows not only sit, wait, and roll over, but shake and even high five!) at two years of age, she’s a bundle of energy who requires as much attention as she does down time (usually comfortably situated on my bed or under the end of my recliner).
I may not love taking her outside multiple times a day in the bitter Iowa cold, but numb fingers and toes at the end of a good walk are worth not only the resulting tired dog, but the knowledge of how easily I can make her happy. And she’s nothing if not generous in her gratitude and affection.
“It’s almost always worth it to go out of your way in the service of others.”
But beyond the benefit of puppy kisses and cuddles, it feels good to know that I can help a friend out when she needs another hand on the leash. It’s a universal truth not only of my relationships with friends and family, but with my career too that hard as it may sometimes be, it’s almost always worth it to go out of your way in the service of others.
It’s the reason I quit my corporate design job. A role that ultimately taught me a lot, but left me unfulfilled without a direct relation to the people with whom my marketing designs were intended and little care for the product advertised. It’s why instead, I find children’s book illustration so fulfilling. Not only as a creative outlet but as a better way to connect with my audience both kids and the kid inside every adult. And finally I’ve realized now two years into teaching art at the college level, it’s why I feel called to be an educator.
Within the past year especially I’ve enjoyed helping and observing my students not only become more skillful artists, but considerate, observant individuals who think more creatively about the tasks I present them. Within the world of art and design, there is illimitable opportunity for growth; I wish that each and every one of my students leaves class confident they can contribute creatively to the world around them. And if I can have any small part in making that happen, I’d call that a success.
As for Lemon, her needs may be more rudimentary, but I’ll happily extend her (and my friend Emma) a helping hand. And maybe receive a few happy licks from the former.