Why Maui Didn’t Bark Today
Aloha dog lovers …
But this morning I noticed a different behavior. The doorbell rang and she didn’t bark. At all. I was not particularly surprised, though. She was busy eating her breakfast. She lifted her head for a moment, gave a short bark to let me know that someone was at the door, and then put her head down again to attend to the task at nose.
Maui chooses what to focus on.
When there’s a choice between chicken, rice, and carrots and barking at the mailman, she’ll choose the chicken every time. This ability to be fully present to both the chicken and the interruptions amazes me.
Whether she is taking a nap, licking my face, or sitting with me in meditation, she gives her full attention to every moment.
My ability to do the same has greatly increased by watching her.
I can now “tune in ” to the subtle miracles that are happening around me when I catch myself being too “busy” for anything other than my work.
…like when a gentle island breeze comes through the window bringing with it the smell of the luscious island flowers…
…or when the sun streams through my home in the afternoon in just the perfect shade of soft orange that takes my breath away when I notice it.
If I am out of touch with the moment, all it takes is sitting back in my chair, closing my eyes and just breathing…
…just five breaths…
…to find myself reconnected to and present in each moment.
Maui is often there wagging her tail when I open my eyes.
If you like, take a moment now…
…sit back, close your eyes and take five deep, slow breaths.
Feel calmer? More present?
I like to think that tens of thousands of you are doing this with me right now and that we’re all finding just a little bit more peace.
Enjoy your day and happy summer!
Warm aloha,
James Jacobson
Creator, “Do You Remember Love?”
Author, “How To Meditate With Your Dog”
Maui, Hawaii
