Gift of "Joy"

Topaz the rescued dog was placed in a more suitable home just before Christmas......a home where they had another dog of the same breed. I hear she has been ok there and perhaps the other dog gives her space and she does the same. Well, it was a kind of interesting experience for us. Sad to have to give her up - for she bonded well to me especially, but she just could not get along with Sabbath. Also being unsure of her past training, it was difficult to insist on new ways for her (like not barking at passing cars and motorbikes, and where to do her toilet).......stressful for her and us!!

Well, we decided that a puppy would be easier to train as a second dog and brought "Joy" home yesterday, direct from a breeder. She is almost three months old, and same breed as Sabbath. She is already a good size and not as fragile to handle as some younger puppies might be. This will be another test for Sabbath's patience - but as Joy is still a puppy, she will have some time to adjust. We are already enjoying the antics of a young pup especially the way she leaps around, very fast and lightfooted. I think it will soon be difficult for Sabbath, who is a 'senior doggy' to catch up with Joy.

The name Joy was chosen after some family deliberation. A reminder especially for me of the "joy" that will never be taken away from us, in Christ, whatever the external circumstances. Perhaps also to remind me that gratitude lies at the foundation of our spiritual lives. Not the easy kind of "giving thanks" but something deeper that runs right under our lives, like an underground stream that flows surely and steadily under both the mountains and valleys, the gladness and the sadness......

I lose the sense of joy and gratitude easily when cares crowd into life. Perhaps this gift of "Joy" at the end of a year and entering the next will help me remain mindful, careful.