What happens when your neighbor’s dog unexpectedly needs a little of your attention?
I happened to see that my neighbor’s German shepherd got out of the backyard the other day. It was such a surprise to see it ambling around on its own. I didn’t want it to get lost or hit by a car on a nearby street so I attempted to approach her, but we don’t really know each other and as soon as she saw me she started barking up a storm. I didn’t think it wise to step foot on her property – that was her territory after all.
Luckily I got hold of my neighbor and promised to keep an eye on their dog while they returned home. The dog had settled down by the kitchen stoop by that time and I hoped she would stay there as she’s a pretty big dog and I wasn’t exactly sure how I would “keep an eye on her” as I’d promised.
When I saw her roam down the street a few minutes later I stepped back outside to see what I could do. I took a few steps down my driveway, and was surprised – she leapt to action, sped directly back home and talked back to me in a loud barking voice.
It turned out that was all I had to do – just walk out the door (a few times) – and stand there and that delightful dog would run back home.
All I had to was just show up.
Reminds me of all we accomplish when we “just show up.” Leaders do that – they show up in ways that matter and sometimes it isn’t as difficult as we imagine it might be.
Enjoy the stories and have a playful day,
– Mary
