The History of Honey
In addition to working as a psychotherapist and teaching yoga, I was also the human half of an animal-assisted therapy team. My dog, Honey, who was a soft-coated wheaten terrier, often joined me in my office when I was working and also as my yoga assistant in the gentle yoga class that I teach at The Yoga Lodge on Whidbey Island. Her downward facing dog was unsurpassed in terms of skill and so was her enthusiastic greeting ability. Honey retired from her role at Evergreen Hospice as an animal-assisted therapy team in 2013 after 7 years of dedication to comforting patients and families dealing with the end of life and the amazing volunteers and staff who support them.
In memory of my beloved Honey and what she, along with all dogs, have taught us…
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you’re not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
Being always grateful for each new day and for the blessing of you.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY.
-Author Unknown