2015 Creative Cups

Becca Bittman

Excerpts from 15 Lessons I Learned from 15 Years of Life with my Little Love, Bailey

Fifteen years ago, I never imagined that the little, foolish puppy of happiness we brought home would change how I viewed the world, and my perceptions of love.

I learned from him to live a life instilled with passion. Our days on earth are numbered; living anything but an extraordinary existence doesn’t seem warranted. Bailey taught me that despite how long we have on this Earth, the limits are endless to how much of an impact our presence has on this world, and how much it can mean to a single person.

Never watch opportunities pass you by when you see value in the reward. Live impulsively, and take the chance. Chasing after that squirrel could potentially pay off in the end.

Take it slow every once in awhile. The world doesn’t stop when you rest your mind for a minute to breathe and take a nap on the couch, or multiple naps in a day. Snoring heavily allowed.

The importance of silence. Oftentimes, nothing speaks louder than an outreached paw. Bailey’s companionship continues to guide me through life, with the understanding that sometimes the absence of words are at the core of how we make it through the everyday moments.

Expect nothing in return for your unselfish compassion. Bailey provided comfort and care in the moments life brought me to tears, and even the moments of joy, expecting nothing in return for his presence, love, and untarnished friendship. I can only hope to return that to the universe.