Is It Just Me?
Join Wimberley humorist Susan Rigby as she attempts to navigate “the small stuff.”
Without saying a word, Seymour, my seven-pound chihuahua, has taught me how to live life to the fullest.
Show your love to the person you live with every day.
Seymour is genuinely happy to see me every morning. He shows me by wagging his tail, looking me in the eyes and licking me. He rolls over to allow me to enjoy the feel of his tummy. The longer I rub his tummy, the more he seems to love me.
Be persistent when working toward your goals.
When Seymour wants to take a walk, he first jumps on me and stares in my eyes. If that doesn’t work, he patiently sits on my chest with his tail wagging. Finally, if I show any signs of moving, he jumps up, wags his whole body and does his “happy pant.” By then, I can’t resist helping him reach his goal. I grab his leash and we happily (he mostly) head out the door.
Be patient and realize that, no matter how much you wish otherwise, some things just take time.
Seymour teaches me this almost every day on our walks. He seems to have a “poop ritual” that has to occur before the “outcome” is met. Through the minutes of circling, squatting, changing positions, squatting again and finally finding the exact spot, he gets to his “outcome.” He never shows impatience or signs of stress no matter how long it takes. Sometimes perfection just takes time.
Be friendly to everyone.
He has taught me that it takes little effort to smile, wag your tail and get close enough to be fawned over. It only takes a few minutes, and often makes that person’s day.
Stand your ground.
If Seymour doesn’t want to do something he hides in his crate or under the bed. No amount of bribing or sweet talking will change his mind. If I have a “gut feeling” about something, Seymour has taught me to follow it and it is usually the right decision.
If Seymour had opposing thumbs, he could write a best-selling, self-help book.
