We all can learn from DaisyBelle, about bias and tolerance.

We all can learn from DaisyBelle, about bias and tolerance. For many people, across the street or walking the trail, she is a mix of American Bulldog and Pit Bull.  There are words often repeated, about these dogs being violent and biting people and getting into tussles with other dogs.  Let’s be clear, she is a strong dog and we know it.  All dogs can be trained to bite and be aggressive from the chihuahua to the largest German Shepherd but these dogs of late are judged as rottweilers were in my youth. 


But, there is another side of her.  Her breed was bred to be nannies and caregivers.  If you paid attention walking her you would notice how her ears perk up when she hears children.  You would see her gentleness and her joy in being pet by children or getting a chance to kiss them as we walk down the trail.  You would see her kindness with Lucky, our cat that she helped find, and how she runs into the yard to protect her if she thinks there is a threat outside.  You might be surprised by that sneaky moment when she and Lucky are actually sleeping next to each other.



You might be surprised that her happiness and love are as clear as she lays under my desk snoring, as she travels with us as we go to Savannah, or most importantly how her kindness lifts up our day and many who come into her contact.  Her breed was bred to be caregivers, and she embodies that.  But, again she is a strong dog who if not trained correctly could perceive every intrusion of people, other animals, or moments as threats and look to protect her pack.


You also might be surprised this morning, as she pulled Frank in a new direction because she heard a puppy in distress.  It wasn't their normal path, but she took Frank to him as she has done to rescue a puppy as she has done before, and as she did when she heard Lucky whimpering outside of our window a few years back.

You also might wonder why I share, other than to brag about her.  It is really, in this challenging time we live in, as she reminds me that we all have the capacity to be caring and loving.  Whether we are living a privileged life, or struggling, or just looking for love at home.  It also reminds us not to judge others by the stereotypes that extremists may want to apply to us all.


To many, DaisyBelle is a threat to society.  But to the 2 puppies, 1 dog, and 2 kittens that she has helped rescue, she is a hero.  To the little girl next door, she is a sweet dog who shares her love.  


I must say to me, she is my hero for reminding me once again on a normal Tuesday morning, what is most important is in this house, my home, and family and not to let the noise and stereotypes of the world make me forget.

Comments

Marcey said…
Lovely thoughts. Glad you shared them.
October 21, 2020 at 9:41 PM
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