Lessons from my dog #2 – Just ask

Just last week, my little beagle stole my socks and ran around the house with them. I chased her around the house a bit, then stopped as I was out of breath.

After a few minutes, I turned around and saw her sitting on the floor by the couch in the living room. Puzzled, I walked over to see what was going on. The socks which were in her mouth is now under the couch. I pointed it to out her and encouraged her to go under the couch and grab it herself. She tried, squeezing into that little gap and then reversing out. I encouraged her again, and she did the same – in, out and still no sock. Then she sat there again, quiet and looking at me eagerly. I know that look.

I reached in to retrieve my now-soggy socks and gave it to her. She took it and jumped on the couch again, happily chewing on my socks once again. I went to shower in peace.

When I came out, she was nowhere to be found again. I searched the places she like to hide – the guest room, under my blanket, in the toilet, under the dining table. No dog in sight.

I entered the kitchen and I saw her there, sitting by her empty water bowl. Her eyes fixed on mine as I walked over and she started wagging her tail furiously. I filled up her water bowl and she lapped it all up in record time. What a silly dog, I thought to myself. Why didn’t she just try to attract my attention if she’s thirsty?

Then it struck me. She did ask. Just not the way I would have. Despite trying her best to reach that pair of socks deep under the couch, she knew she couldn’t and asked for help. I can’t remember how many times in my life I’ve faced a difficulty that I can’t overcome, yet I won’t ask for help. Whether it’s because of my ego or just being plain stubborn, it could have saved me so much trouble and so much frustration if only I had humbly admitted defeat and asked for help.

Also, asking doesn’t mean that help will come immediately. I bet she sat there for all the duration that I went and showered, but she waited patiently for her water to arrive. She didn’t know when I would have noticed her plea but she waited anyway, without even a whimper.

That night, she taught me one of life’s valuable lesson and its especially pertinent to me. If I want something I should ask. And after I ask, I should wait. If patience is indeed a virtue, then dogs must truly be saints.