Day# 47

Hello!

My family has a menagerie of pets and somehow I've inherited most of them. I currently have 3 dogs, 2 cats and a parakeet living in my small house.

The largest pet is our Olde English Bulldogge (correct spelling -- not to be confused with an English Bulldog). Her name is Rusty. She weighs about 90 pounds and was born with severe hip dysplasia, which means she has almost no cushioning in her hip joints. Because of that she's in constant pain and has difficulty walking. In fact, when she walks she looks like a hula dancer – her hips sway from side to side.

A veterinarian who specializes in hip dysplasia recommended we put her to sleep when she was less than a year old. But we opted not to, figuring she'd let us know when the pain became too much for her. Six years later, we still have a very active bull dog!

I marvel at Rusty. I know she is in extreme pain, but she insists on being part of the family. When I go upstairs she follows. When I walk the quarter mile to my gate she wants to join me. Most of the time she only walks about ¼ of the way, plops down and waits for my return. She loves to ride in the car and always heads for the door when she hears the car keys or the word "go."

Rusty is my daily reminder of how strong love and the will to survive are. She never complains but thrives on kind words and the affection we give her.

Whenever I catch myself entertaining thoughts of discouragement or self-pity, I look at Rusty and know I have no right to complain. My day -- my attitude -- will be what I choose to make it. And like Rusty, I choose happiness and contentment -- no matter the circumstances.

Today, you too choose your attitude. I invite you to rise above your circumstances. Choose a positive attitude, no matter your situation. You can do it, because…

And I do, too!
Sandi Valentine

P.S. If you need to be reminded today just how very special you are go to:  A Movie Just For You!

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