Wait…

We’ve been teaching Bodhi to WAIT. It’s become a necessity. In his excitement to greet people he knows (like me) he’s run across Richmond Rd in rush hour traffic and bounds too exuberantly when he sees friends. He’s starting to get it, looking both ways for traffic when we cross a street and being a little less jumpy.

The photo of Bodhi shows how he turned the tables on us. He is “waiting” outside because he wants to go for a ride. He’s living up to his reputation of being smart, teaching me some things as well.

Despite our push and pull culture, good things do come to those who wait. Here are some thoughts about the benefits of waiting, not all learned from my dog.

BE PATIENT

This is Bodhi’s specialty. He is uncommonly patient, waiting for whatever I plan to do next. Whether it’s sitting by my desk all afternoon while I work or waiting for his anticipated walk or dinner. He doesn’t get pushy or upset. He simply waits. It’s humbling. I’ve learned to be calm when waiting too.

BE PRESENT

An auxiliary advantage to having to wait is the opportunity to be present. It slows you down, gives you a chance to be grounded in the moment and fully take in what is going on around you. Notice how calming this can be. Dogs are a natural at this.

GATHER ALL THE INFORMATON

Waiting to gather all the information before making a decision is something I’ve had to learn over time. Not rushing into things, waiting until you get a full picture also requires patience. Good decisions benefit from this.

LISTEN BEFORE SPEAKING

And not speaking before someone is done are good skills to learn. Eagerness and a desire to be heard can make any of us a little rude. It’s helpful to wait and find just the right time to speak up.

MATURITY TAKES TIME

Waiting for your garden, trees or kids to grow takes time. It’s a long game that teaches us that we can improve and develop over time. Give yourself some clear intention and direction with this and enjoy your own unfolding. It’s never too late.