Following the Tao of Mona

Writers’ “antennae” pick up drama like ants’ do a juicy piece of fruit.

Drama is sexy. Who wants to read about someone with no struggles or challenges? Who wants to read about a family who genuinely love, support, and get along with each other (the anti-Kardashians)?

Writers need regular reality checks to save them from drowning in drama.

Call it God, call it a higher power, call it fate, or call it The Force. Whatever. There is a cosmic pattern that provides just the right life thread at the right time. That is why writers should seriously consider rescuing a dog.

Oh, cats are wonderful creatures, especially if you want to learn patience and humility. We writers like cats because their independent, often solitary nature mirrors our own.

But a dog! Well, a dog just wants to share love and adventure and happiness. Rescue dogs are especially grateful for getting a better life.

Mona, who came into my life at a particularly dark time, exudes contentment. It doesn’t take much to make her happy:

• Dozing in sunbeams on the back of the couch
• Chasing the cat around the house
• Rolling in the grass (especially if there is a mysterious, decaying, disgusting, smelly blob!)
• Doggie treats
• Racing me back to the house from the mailbox
• Just running
• Biting at water coming out of a hose
• Visiting with other people and dogs (She is very fond of my father.)
• A constant supply of kibble
• Gutting a squeaky toy
• Squirrel patrol
• Hanging out with me while I work

Things are not all sunshine and roses for Mona. She doesn’t like baths, getting her toenails clipped, or gunshots. But she doesn’t dwell on them either. When they are over, they are over.

Come on! This is a dog who wags her tail in her sleep. (Cracks me up every time.)

At Thanksgiving, we remind ourselves of all the things in life we are grateful for. The Tao of Mona means living in that state of gratitude every moment of every day.

Want to know the secret of a happy life? Hang out with a dog for a while.

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