“Compassion is not the relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness can we be present with the darkness of others.”
~ Pema Chodron
Today marks a special anniversary in our family, a moment that brings with it a mix of emotions, reflections, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude. It has been exactly one year since we were reunited with our beloved Midge, who had gone missing for two harrowing weeks in a foreign environment during the peak of winter. Her journey back to us was nothing short of miraculous, filled with challenges, but also with a poignant lesson in resilience, change, and the power of compassion.
Over the past year, we've witnessed a remarkable transformation in her, thanks in large part to the unwavering friendship and love of her new fur-brother, “Freckles”. Their bond is a testament to the healing power of companionship, expressed by the way they play vigorously, love fiercely, and stand as unshakeable pillars of support for each other. Despite her significant progress, the scars of her ordeal remain visible in the form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the nightmares that haunted her every sleep upon her return have lessened in frequency and intensity, they still emerge on stormy nights when the sounds of the weather permeate our home.
Her survival instincts during those lost weeks have left her with an insatiable hunger, a reminder of the days she spent fighting for her life. Although she has regained much of the weight she lost, the physical toll of her adventure at eight years old means she may never fully recover her lost muscle mass. Yet, her spirit remains undiminished, delighting in long runs and cherishing every moment spent with her family. However, it's impossible not to notice the changes in her behavior—more whiny, needy, and stubborn than before her solo journey. While we rejoice in having her safe and sound at home, we can't help but nostalgically remember the dog she was before her adventure.
This experience serves as a powerful reality check on the profound impact trauma can have on any living being, human or animal. It reminds us that experiences, especially traumatic ones, permanently mark us, altering our essence in ways we could never anticipate. Our dog's journey is a mirror reflecting the similar struggles faced by many people who endure PTSD. The changes wrought by such experiences aren't choices; they're the result of an imperative to survive, leaving lasting impressions that shape behaviors, personalities, and needs.
In our interactions with others, whether through our professional engagements in real estate or our personal lives, this lesson in compassion and empathy is invaluable. We are reminded to extend grace and understanding to everyone we meet. We don't know the battles they've fought, the traumas they've endured, or the resilience they've had to muster. Just as our dog cannot articulate the fears and challenges she faced, many people may find it impossible to voice their traumatic experiences. Yet, their behaviors, much like her increased neediness or stubbornness, may be silent screams for understanding and compassion.
In a world where life's twists and turns can alter us in the blink of an eye, let’s pledge to look beyond the surface, to recognize the unseen battles, and to offer kindness and patience to all. Our dog's story is a gentle reminder that change, whether for better or worse, is an integral part of life's journey. It teaches us to embrace compassion as a fundamental response to the unknown stories of struggle that surround us. As we navigate the complexities of human interactions, we carry this message of empathy and understanding, acknowledging that the greatest strength lies in our ability to connect with and support each other through even the most challenging of times.
