Lesson From a Golden Retriever

We have a Golden Retiever named Admiral who has been a part of our family for the past 12 years. He has seen each of our family members when they have been their happiest, and on those days when each of us has not been feeling our best. During the past couple of years as age has caught up with him, he continues to have his adorable personality, but has slowed down somewhat. This is what happens with all of us. One of the major changes has been his inability to climb the stairs to the upper levels of our home. This is not a major problem, but I am a firm believer that there is usually an alternate route to get to a desired destination.

I began to notice different behavior when Admiral's legs became more stiff. He would stand at the bottom of the stairs, and stare up at us as we walked by the upper level peering down at him. It was as if he were saying "I am here, be aware of my presence." We would smile and call his name, which would get us a cheerful bark. The interesting observation is as the days and weeks went by, his determination became stronger. First he would bark, and place his front legs on the first step leading upstairs, a few days later, he would repeat this action and his front paws would extend to the second stair and he would jump up and down as his paws hit on the stair making a sound. He would never stop. This action made me think of the way one must remain while doing business. You must never quit.

There are going to be times when your path is blocked by an obstacle that has entered your road, but with determination you can keep proceeding forward towards your business goals. Sometimes, that may mean only taking a step each day, but maintaining your spark will ensure you get there.