Some of you might remember that I got a puppy several years ago. At my age, it was a stretch to bring a puppy into our home. We prepared well with a crate, and she had a master bathroom to make her new home.  It’s been a while so my memory escapes me how difficult it was, but I remember Sadie adjusting well to her new surroundings.  I can’t imagine how hard it was for a newborn pup to be ripped away from the comfort and warmth of her mother.

As time went on, my main focus was on making sure that she got potty trained. Puppies don’t do well with holding their business, but overall she got used to going out for regular potty time. I can proudly say that the mission was accomplished (after 6 months). As of now at the 3-year mark, she is very well trained in that area.

What I wasn’t expecting was how to handle a barky dog. Barking was something that my last Shitzu didn’t seem to be too consumed with. Not Sadie, she would bark at cars, people, and dogs whenever we were out walking, someone came to the door., or in the backyard.  I learned early on that this would be the biggest focus on our training together. I didn’t know what would work if anything. When dogs are wired to be protective, that instinct kicks in and they can be difficult to control.

I’ve tried everything from bark collars to electronic zappers, to having a personal dog trainer, with very little success. I’ve had two different neighbors reprimand me for her barking. One was very rageful about it, accusing me of not being a good parent to my dog. Boy, that hurt. I know how mothers must feel when they have an unruly child. What do you do when someone rages at you for things you may or may not be responsible for?

I quietly entered my home after being berated, knowing that God would meet me in my quiet place to bring forgiveness and healing. The scripture teaches us that our war is not about flesh and blood but about the powerful forces of the enemy of this world against us. The enemy would love to rob us of the value and identity that God has given us. Rather than take offense that I wasn’t a good mom to my puppy, I chose to release all the hurt feelings and forgive this neighbor for his spiteful words. Unforgiveness can be hard to work through because many times there are layers of anger, hurt, and fear that keep the forgiveness from being released. I’ve given the example that it’s like you’ve put a band-aid over things, but there is still puss underneath that still leaks.

Are you one who feels like you have done the forgiveness prayers for difficult parents, spouses, or bosses, but continue to feel consumed with the same hurts. Some feel they are letting the person off the hook if they forgive. I encourage you to walk through these feelings. Some may camp out in anger because it’s a more aggressive feeling. The vulnerable feelings can be harder to work through. As I’ve journaled through these negative feelings along with spending time with the true Comforter, I’m now aware of how my negative feelings have dissipated. So amazing how this happens when we take the time to work through them.

Jesus commanded us to forgive one another and said if we don’t forgive, He can’t forgive us and it only hurts us. I’ve heard the expression it’s like we’re drinking poison but expecting the other person to die. Many develop health problems that are directly influenced of how our body holds onto negative emotions.

Scripture teaches that if we forgive others, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins; that we are washed as clean as snow. You might want to make a list of those you have harbored unforgiveness toward. Sometimes it’s these little hurts that we discount,  but can still keep us in bondage. Many times, it can be forgiveness toward ourselves that is the hardest to let go of.

In raising this puppy, I’ve enjoyed her ability to cuddle with me. She’s truly a cuddler which is the one characteristic that I really wanted. We spend afternoons with her on my chest just bringing her warmth and love to me. It’s so special to have a little glimmer of Christ’s love toward me!

I’m deeply thankful for what this dog has given me even in the midst of struggling with some of her characteristics. As we approach Thanksgiving, I urge you to be thankful for what your relationships do offer you, rather than what is missing.