What I Learned From My Blind Dog

My dog Scooter has gone blind.

At first it was heartbreaking.

Watching him bump into things, and then seeing him withdraw, sit still for long periods of time…

It made me wonder what he must be thinking.

If it was even worth still being around, when he had once been so fiercely independent.

He's always been a cute little guy, but also kind of grouchy and self-centered.

He's about 99 in people years, but that hasn't slowed him down too much.

Until he went 100% blind over the last few months.

Then our vet said something that really stuck with me: “You know, Ray, Scooter's not feeling sorry for himslef. Dogs don't do self-pity.”

Guess what?

The minute we realized that, Scooter's attitude improved 100%!

Was he listening?

No.

But Lynn (my wife) and I started treating him as if we didn't pity him — we just started loving him more.

And because of his “helpless” state, he was more open to receiving our help.

What I Learned From Scooter

We started working with Scooter, teaching him new commands, helping him learn his way around again, and taking him for walks.

He still has his moments, but he's adjusting.

Most of the time you'd never know he was blind.

And now he seems the happiest I've ever seen him. He's not grouchy.

He's not self-centered.

He's more affectionate, more loving, and more playful than ever.

Why is that?

I think it's because his blindness opened him up to accepting the love and the help of those who care for him, instead of trying to do everything himself.

And this is why I'm telling you about my blind dog…

I Too Am A Blind Dog

No, I'm not physically blind. And I am of course more grateful than ever for the gift of sight. When I say “I too am a blind dog”, I'm speaking metaphorically.

You see, I'm trying to be more like Scooter – to take that same approach to my life and my business as I contemplate a new year.

The “same approach” meaning: learning, like Scooter has, to be open to the wisdom, the love, and the knowledge of those around me.

Those wonderful, intelligent, sage beings who are part of my life.

Like you, for instance.

Question: how do you stay open to the wisdom of those around you? Comment below…

Ray Edwards is a world-renowned copywriter and communications strategist, writing for some of the most powerful voices in leadership and business including New York Times bestselling authors Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen (Chicken Soup for the Soul) and Tony Robbins. Ray is a sought-after speaker and author, hosts a popular weekly podcast, and blogs at RayEdwards.com.