Weather conditions closed area schools for almost a month. All my family, except me, lay bedfast with the flu, and we lived on a farm. Anyone who knows anything about farm life knows the work must be done, whether a person feels like it or not.
I was in high school, but I was old enough to do what needed to be done. The housework—mine to do. The farm work—mine to do. Meal preparation, such as it was—mine to do. Although that sounds like a major overload, I had a ball. The primary reason? My dog Dashaway.
While I dragged monster-size bales of hay, Dashaway slowed his pace and walked beside me. When I sat on the hay to rest, Dashaway leaned against my legs and rested too. Whatever I had to do, Dashaway was there, doing what he could, lending protection and support.
After we finished the outside chores, we played, ran, and jumped as if we didn’t have a care in the world. When we worked, we worked hard. When we played, we played hard. Whatever we did, we enjoyed one another’s company and made the most of each moment.
Eventually, school resumed, and my family recovered. However, that special relationship with Dashaway never changed. We became best friends who guarded one another’s backs.
What did I learn from my furry friend? Establish firm, lasting relationships. Faithfully protect each other’s trust. Guard one another’s backs. Help one another with needs, great or small. Hold each other accountable. Share and enjoy both work and play.
Dashaway helped me recognize and embrace the lessons God teaches through all creation. Strive to be a friend who consistently reflects God’s never-failing love and devotion.
Diana Derringer is author of Beyond Bethlehem and Calvary: 12 Dramas for Christmas, Easter, and More! She writes for several publications and enjoys traveling with her husband and serving as a friendship family to international university students. She offers life lessons from English expressions at dianaderringer.com.