ONE THING LEADS TO ANOTHER
I spotted them about a quarter of a mile ahead of me just off to the right in the residential area that uses speed bumps that are more like speed Mount Everest’s to keep traffic at a safe speed. They were strolling the park in the comfortable morning air and weren’t in a hurry, it didn’t appear to be as much of an exercise walk as it was an enjoyable saunter for the two middle-aged women and their dog.
The women didn’t catch my eye so much as the furry “man’s best friend”, or “women’s best friend” as it were. I knew right away even at some distance the dog was a good dog. The women didn’t have him on a leash, this was the veteran type of dog that didn’t need a lot in the way of a micro manager/master. This was the type of dog that could teach my dogs a thing or two.
The pooch had a distinct gait – I picked it up from a ways out, in fact, his gait was the very first thing to command my attention. It’s been a while since I’d seen it, “No, that’s a regular gait,” I convinced myself as I slowed to navigate the mountain of pavement in the middle of the road that stretched conveniently from gutter to gutter.
I lost sight of the Saturday morning strollers behind parked cars ahead as I proceeded slowly. A sort of dread came over me, “I don’t want to see reality if it’s bad news,” I spoke to myself, but it was the type of dread that forces you to watch like an approaching train wreck.
As soon as my sightline cleared the parked cars, I got a close-up view of all of them, “Bummer…” I thought to myself as I watched the furry four legged park lover. He or she was having a good time – that dog loved the park like little kids love the park, maybe even more?
The title of “Four Legged Friend” didn’t fit the medium sized shepherd anymore… somewhere along the way Fido lost his right rear leg. The dog didn’t have a problem with his lot in life, but I did. I furrowed my brow as I watched the dog make his way the best way he could and wondered about my perspective.
Why would I dread seeing a three-legged dog? I’ve seen it more times than I can recall. The reality that we live in a fallen world is inescapable. It doesn’t take a close study of anything or anyone to figure that out. The three legged dog was my reminder of how often we hide from that hard reality in our world.
One thing leads to another; if we have to look upon anything that is less than perfect, it leads us to the next imperfection and eventually comes full circle to ourselves. That’s the fact I was trying to avoid that the three-legged dog was reminding me of…
The imperfection in the world and in ourselves isn’t all bad… if the knowledge and wisdom leads us to the Truth… and real Truth brings compassion on the slightest of our Father’s creation… like the three legged dog…
Dan Erickson
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:47 am
But we could also see the three-legged dog as a reminder that God is with us, even in our imperfection and brokenness.
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 7:08 am
Yeah, I tried to allude to that, Dan. I’m just trying to edit the posts down so they don’t take too much time to read. I ended up slicing about twenty percent of the original. Great point. Thanks, Dan.
Dan Erickson
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 8:12 am
I like the length of your posts, Floyd. I’m always amazed at how you’re able to pack so much into short posts. They’re filled with great life examples. And I think it’s okay that some things get left out. It allows room for readers to think and respond.
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:13 pm
That’s a really good point, Dan. Not to mention it makes me feel better about skinnying them up! Thanks, Dan. You’re never short of wisdom and insight, brother.
Jillie
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 8:09 am
I totally agree, Dan…On the perfect length of Floyd’s posts, the everyday-life applications, and the food for thought! He’s great at this, isn’t he?
Dan Erickson
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 8:24 am
Yes he is. I admire his ability to do this so well.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:16 pm
Jillie, if you get a chance check out Dan’s site and also scroll to where he has some excerpts from his book. It’s real, you’ll appreciate my man Dan I’m sure!
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:06 pm
You’re too good to me, Jillie… Thanks
bill (cycleguy)
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 7:36 am
We do tend to be judgmental to “imperfection” sometimes. Dogs. People. Praise God He did not take our attitude. Loved the story Floyd.
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:12 pm
It’s all a gift, isn’t it, Bill? I agree whole heartedly. Thanks, Bill.
Rick Dawson
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 9:01 am
Good post, Floyd. I’m just getting back into blogging after taking a few years off (small matter of esophageal cancer)and found your blog from Cycleguy’s Spin.
We’re all like three-legged dogs – some of us don’t like the view in the mirror, but that doesn’t change who (and whose) we are. Adding your blog to my blogroll, and thanks for a great post. By the way, if you do pop over to mine, you’ll note most of mine are in the 1K – 2K word range – maybe I need a better editor 🙂
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:15 pm
It’s great to have you, Rick. I’ll be looking forward to hooking up and learning the story that God has for you to share. Good point about us not liking the reflection too! Thanks, Rick.
tcavey
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 12:50 pm
The world puts labels on things/people/animals…sometimes those labels are fair and other times they aren’t.
If I were to have seen that dog my heart would have ached for it, but to the dog, my sympathy is probably unwarranted.
It reminds me of a friend of mines child who has Downs. She is the happiest little girl EVER! She has no clue that some in our world think poorly of her existence. There are times I envy her simplicity in how she views life…I think she’s closer to knowing the heart of God than I am.
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:36 pm
TC, that’s exactly the way I feel about our friends son whose now in his mid twenties! I guess we’ve known them for pushing twenty years. I’ve even mentioned that exact sentiment to my wife on numerous occasions. I think they got maybe one of the best gifts from God and I know for sure He’s looking after them! It shouldn’t surprise me at this point that you and I think and speak alike… but it still does. Thanks, TC.
Rick Dawson
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 8:49 pm
TC, are you familiar at all with Brennan Manning? He points out that a number of cultures consider folks with Downs as being closer to God – the innocence is never really lost, and they are always happy.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:39 am
I’ve only read one of his books, but it was intense. He was quite a loss, but he ran the good race and fought the good fight in a tough age.
Rick Dawson
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 9:40 pm
Yes, he did. I think his work will stand the test of time simply because of his honesty.
tcavey
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 1:47 pm
I have not heard of Manning, but I will check out his work! Thanks, Rick, for the recommendation.
God bless.
Rick Dawson
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 2:33 pm
Hi TC!
I’ve found the best one to start with is “The Ragamuffin Gospel” and then go from there – I just finished re-reading “Ruthless Trust” and was once again blown away. Getting ready to dive into “Abba’s Child” next.
Shalom,
Rick
tcavey
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 8:13 am
Thanks, Rick. I’ll check these out!
Have a wonderful weekend.
Betty Draper
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 4:29 pm
That three legged dog has no idea of the good that has come out of whatever caused him to lose his leg. Such profound lessons are taught by such simple thing. And it takes writers such as you my brother to bring it home to all who read your post. Blessings
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:39 pm
Thanks, Betty. I know that your eyes see things in a similar light to mine. While I’m certain you see more, I’m honored to see and hear what you do. Well said, Betty. It’s amazing the varied things that God can use to bring about His perfect will.
Lynn Morrissey
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 5:46 pm
Special post, Floyd–a reminder to me that we all have imperfections and yet, with Christ, can make the best of life and find purpose. No doubt this darling dog brought great joy to its owners. And it was also a reminder to me that love overcomes all imperfections. We don’t discard those with inabilities, aged, etc. We love them for who they are and not how they perform.
God bless you for always showing us light!
Lynn
Floyd
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 6:11 pm
Very eloquently said, Lynn. We love one another with all of our imperfections the way our Father loves us… You nailed that right to the ground, Lynn. Thank you. Praying for your health and energy.
Jillie
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 8:13 am
Well said, Lynni! I’m so glad people don’t reject me for my ‘imperfections’. Most of them cannot be seen with the naked eye, but they’re definitely there!
Write to me! I miss you!
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:07 pm
Lynn most certainly has the gift to capture a subject with such beauty and clarity, I’m always amazed and feel like I just got a bit more wisdom from reading her words. You two must be related!
Keith Walker
Wednesday, May 29, 2013 @ 7:43 pm
Sometimes I feel like the three-legged dog. Different from the creature you describe, however. Sometimes, I limp along, forlorn over imagined wounds and weaknesses. Two things you have reminded me of. First, even if truly wounded, I should take courage from the stalwart strength of others. Even if hurt, there is a way forward. Second, my limbs are just fine. Why limp along for no real reason? Thank you for the lesson.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:37 am
Thanks for stopping in, Keith. I always appreciate your take and perspective on things… You’re a good seed, Walker…
Mia
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 12:39 am
Dear Floyd
Oh, my friend, we all walk around on phsycological and spiritual crutches. Those crutches know one way, left to itself; straight to the hot place!! No wonder our Lord Jesus has to carry us in Him and live in us as well! The difference is that some of us gets to that place where we know we can only cry out like the tax collector for mercy, others still need to see their wretchedness and others are terrified of our Pappa because of the way life and religion have treated them. So that three legged furry friend is is good company!
Blessings
Mia
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:42 am
I so appreciate your warmth and wisdom, Mia. You spread God’s wisdom like a warm blanket over shivering souls… Thank you so much.
Lisa notes
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 4:43 am
I’m always sad when I see three-legged dogs, too. But like the one you saw, the ones I see have adapted quite well too. Hmm… I just finished reading “The Gifts of Imperfection” – maybe this dog read it before I did. ha. You’re right that imperfections in this world are good if they lead us to the Truth. Wish I could hold on to that thought longer!
And I wish I could walk our dog without a leash. It’s hard enough with one. I need better training. 🙂
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:45 am
I hear you! It’s pretty sad when we can learn lessons from animals! Isn’t that the truth about hanging onto things longer? We grasp it and then it slips our of our hands while we try to hold on physically to what can only be held onto spiritually.
And yeah, I need better training for our dogs too… in the meantime I’ll just keep blaming them!
Chuck Allen
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 5:44 am
Excellent post, Floyd. You certainly nailed it when you pointed out that we don’t like seeing imperfection because it turns the focus on ourselves.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:47 am
Exactly, Chuck. What goes around comes around and the imperfections are one of those things that never gets too far away. Thanks, Chuck.
Jillie
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 8:20 am
Beautifully said, Floyd! I love this post! You caught my eye with the photo of the German Shepherd. I grew up with Shepherds–one after the other, and sometimes with two in the house at the same time. I have such a soft spot for the canine. So many wonderful memories of the all the dogs in my life. (NOT a cat person, can you tell?)
I love the thought this brings, of ‘The Good Shepherd’, who loves us just as we are, not as we should be–deep flaws and disabilities and all. This was so good, Floyd!
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:10 pm
I like that image of The Good Shepherd! Nice connect! How true, it matters not what we look like or how we can get around, it matters only what’s inside. Great call, Jillie! (I’m thinking about sending my dog Larry to live with you!)
Jillie
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 10:35 am
Bring him on, Floyd! Is he a shepherd??? I’m pretty sure my possessive little Westie might get her totally spoiled little nose out of joint, though! :]
Floyd
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 5:38 pm
Larry is a shih tzu, although he’s the biggest one I’ve ever seen, he’s still pretty slight compared to the big dogs. He gets scared around the big dogs… guess he’s not so dumb after all!
Jason Stasyszen
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 11:25 am
I do know what you mean. Not wanting to be confronted with the hard things of others (even dogs). Some people will avoid anything they deem “negative” so that they can stay “positive.” It’s sad though because they never get the joy of walking with someone and loving them through hard times. They believe they’re protecting themselves, but they’re closing off. Not sure that was the point of your story, but it got me thinking! 🙂 Thanks Floyd.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:18 pm
That’s an awesome point, Jason. I was pointing to that, but didn’t get that deep into the reality of truth that you’ve offered. It is a gift to walk along side and share the good and the bad of life… That’s what we’re called to do. Well said, my soon to be Oklahoma pastor transplant!
Voni Harris
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 12:54 pm
We’ve learned the hard way in our family the destructive power of avoidance of truth. But really, what do we have to fear? Jesus is the One who said, “I am the way, the TRUTH, and the life.” “The TRUTH will set you free.” What do we have to fear, looking TRUTH in the face? Yet, fear we do.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:21 pm
For sure, Voni. Truth is freedom when we know the One who holds all things in the palm of His hand. Yet, fear we do… I’m with you sister, but when we communicate with one another about the difficulties, it makes us stronger. Thanks for that, Voni. That’s what it’s all about.
Rick Dawson
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 2:44 pm
Ah, denial – it isn’t just a river in Egypt anymore 🙂
Ngina Otiende
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 5:49 pm
Too funny : ) And true.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:27 pm
I think we’re gonna have a ton of fun with Rick!
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:24 pm
You’ve just given away the fact that you grew up or spent a lot of time in the east coast! Yooz gize no haw to get da’ job dun – heh? Good one, Rick!
Rick Dawson
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:35 pm
As a matter of fact – yes 🙂
Born in Los Angeles, the family followed the post-war construction boom from east coast to west coast. They finally settled down in Massachusetts, about 20 miles out of Boston.
After I got out of the Navy in ’73, I ended up moving to Virginia. Spent a whole lot of time on the east coast.
The funniest part for me is that my New England accent only comes out on a few words – notably quarter (“quahta”) and chowder (“chowda”). My southern accent only comes out when I’m tired (23 years in the Richmond area? You pick up the accent as a matter of self-defense 🙂
You’re gonna *love* the next couple of posts over at my place, folks 🙂
Floyd
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 6:55 am
Your last post is a home run, Rick.
Rick Dawson
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:37 pm
…and how, exactly, did my denial comment say I’m from the east coast? I thought it was an A.A. / N.A. thing… 🙂
Floyd
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 6:55 am
I actually cheated… I knew from your site that you lived in the east and moved to the midwest… And that teacher said my reading comprehension needed work… Ha!
Ngina Otiende
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:16 pm
I agree with you Floyd, too often we are unwilling to lean into brokenness because it will lead to acknowledging the brokenness within us. I am learning that God does not expect me to handle that inner brokenness alone. Rather He wants me to invite Him in..it’s so liberating to know that.
Floyd
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 6:33 pm
That is well said, Ngina. “Too often we are unwilling to lean into brokenness because it will lead to acknowledging the brokenness within us.” That wraps it up with a perfect bow. I think you should tweet that, Ngina. I’m telling you, that’s pure wisdom and words from God, sister. Thanks for sharing. Brilliant.
Hazel Moon
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 8:37 pm
That sweet dog was enjoying life and the park, and why let a little thing like being missing a leg ruin his day. We have parts missing too, but as long as we keep our attitude of gratitude we will enjoy where we are. Time catches up with us all in different ways, but we can still rejoice in who holds our hand.
Floyd
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 6:56 am
Very well summed up, Hazel. “Keep our attitude of gratitude.” That’s a keeper! I’ll have to quote you on that one! Thanks, Hazel.
Dan Black
Thursday, May 30, 2013 @ 9:08 pm
Reading this reminds me about their being no such thing as a perfect person(beside when Jesus walked the earth). We all have our faults and weaknesses though some people cover them up better than others. Though we are weak God still cares and loves us. Great thoughts Floyd. You have me thinking.
Floyd
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 6:58 am
Good call, Dan. We all have weaknesses for sure. I’m beginning to thing that the ones who seem like they have the least weaknesses often have the most. The world is full of actors who could earn academy awards… Excellent point, Dan. Thanks. Now you got me thinking.
Barb Raveling
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 11:28 am
I’m with you, Floyd. I ache when I see people (or animals) suffer. So much so that I have a hard time watching either movies or even Andy Mayberry style tv shows if someone is suffering in them. But in my own life, I’m thankful for the things in my life that have made it less than perfect. Not that I enjoy those things, but they’re the things God uses to bring me close to Him. I love the fact that God can bring good out of all things – that He redeems all the bad things that happen to us if we go to Him for help.
Floyd
Friday, May 31, 2013 @ 5:40 pm
I’m with you, Barb. That’s the perfect perspective. In hindsight, some of the worst things that have happened to me have really been the best things that could have happened to me. Glad I’m not in control… it would have been even uglier. Great wisdom and perspective, Barb. Thanks.
Joy Dawson
Sunday, June 2, 2013 @ 7:09 pm
You sound like a man after my own heart, Floyd. Many years ago I adopted a kitten — sight unseen — specifically because of her harsh introduction into the world. Her mother — a first-timer, apparently — was a bit over-zealous, they said. When she was done eating the afterbirth she got “carried away” and ate this kitten’s right hind foot. She grew up to be a most awesome cat! Although she ended up having to have most of the leg amputated, she “ambulated” just fine. “Little Peggy” (I suppose I should apologize for rather tastelessly referencing the pirate, “Peg-Legged Pete” when naming her) developed the most amazing musculature in her tail, which she used like a balancing pole to help her navigate. She could run faster than any of my other (14) cats and could willfully knock over a full glass of soda with that “turbo tail” of hers. She was a beloved character and quickly captured the heart of my husband, Rick (an avowed NON-cat person when I met him),
Thanks for sharing your tender heart and thoughtful view of life!
Floyd
Sunday, June 2, 2013 @ 7:17 pm
What a great story, Joy! Isn’t it amazing how when some of the beings, including humans, seem almost stronger because of what we consider weaknesses? I was too forced by some people (names have been changed to protect the not-quite-so-innocent) to adopt the cat way… Thanks for sharing, Joy… and dare I reuse the worn out clever line that you’ve most certainly heard your entire life, “It’s a joy to have you, Joy.” The difference being I truly mean it… God bless you and your hubby, sister.
Nancy
Wednesday, June 5, 2013 @ 9:13 am
Stuff like you just described, brings me to utter thanksgiving. Righteousness belongs to God. He is holy, we aren’t But HE shares His love, grace and Mercy with us until we finally realize the completion of our salvation. These flimsy “houses” that carry our spirits wouldn’t last a minute without God’s help. He makes all things beautiful in His time. Open my eyes, Lord, that I may see your beauty- and your good works – in everything. Amen! Thanks for stirring up my soul this morning , Floyd!
Floyd
Thursday, June 6, 2013 @ 7:40 am
It is a gift from God to all of us when your soul is stored up, Nancy. You carry so much wisdom within and you use it wisely and with such beauty. What an honor to God. Thanks, Nancy.
Loren Pinilis
Monday, June 10, 2013 @ 5:16 pm
This reminds me of seeing little kids who are sick. They don’t care at all. They’ll have snot dripping down their faces and they’ll be coughing – but they’re just smiling and playing all the same.
And it makes me thankful for what I have – and aware of how vain I am about some things sometimes.
Floyd
Tuesday, June 11, 2013 @ 8:51 am
I appreciate the heart and wisdom, Loren. Your take reminds me of how vain I am as well. We need to help keep one another grounded. Thanks, brother.