Like Children & Puppies

Having both grandchildren and puppies you can't help but notice similarities in behavior such as all of them learn by having fun.  Try teaching one of them anything without the fun involved and you can lose them instantly.

Growing up in a family of 9 meant rigid discipline had to be establised otherwise we would have never been able to find anything.  However, along with the discipline and work (it was said you could eat off my mom's floors, they were so clean), we always had time to laugh and play.

My oldest brother, Ralph, was the alpha comedian.  I say 'alpha' because our younger brothers, Joe and Chris, were also comedians although Ralph had everyone beat so we considered him the alpha.

When Ralph began his comedic rants he would entertain until we were rolling on the floor, choking, with tears flowing down our cheeks.  I always thought he should be on stage and would tell him so, adding that there was one leaving in 30 minutes.

The point is, we all got along and still do, with lots of fun, laughter, support and a whole lot of entertainment value.  That has boiled down to a whole lot of love that we have passed down to our children, who are now passing that love down to their children who know that we all want the best for them but whatever they choose to be or do in life is their choice and although we may not understand their choices, we'll support them and help out whenever they ask and always be there for them.  To date, we haven't had any drugs or other substance issues and all seem to be free from depression or any emotional or spiritual or physical issues either.  I believe it's because we have taught with loving discipline along with fun and lots of playfulness.

And so, my life in general has been filled with love and laughter, barring a few unfortunate challenges that have made a few dents.  Dents are not bottomless pits, however.  Whatever happens in life, having a strong spirit helps.  And a whole lot of attitude and gratefulness.  I am grateful to have so much love and laughter in this lifetime. 

The love and laughter extended to my friendships and into my spiritual life when I met Grandmother PaRisHa.  Her love and devotion to her students transcended any relationship I've ever had with a spiritual guide and mentor.  She taught with strict discipline but infused it with lots of laughter and so much love.  There was no better way to learn the way and walk of beauty.  When we began to learn we were as little children and puppies:  capable of soaking up spiritual lessons like dry sponges waiting for water.  She had an ocean of principles and experiences to pass on and we couldn't seem to get enough of the waters of life that flowed from her deep well of wisdom.

So now it's our turn to nurture and bring lifegiving water from which to drink.  As Grandmother PaRisHa would begin a teaching, the thunder, lightening and rain would come and we would gather 'round Grandmother as she would begin to teach us.  In a playful spirit she would bring us closer to her to learn the ancient wisdoms with the words, " Come my beloved children and let me tell you a beautiful story".  Our lives would never be the same.