Moving On

Doc says that life is filled with transitions. Some are celebrated, some are mourned and some pass by us with out much notice. They all have one thing in common however, they mark the passage of time. At my very young age of almost ten months old, I am already noticing how the transitions are affecting me.

Last night Doc went to the retirment party of one of my favorite co-workers, Beth. She was a manager in the counseling department and worked at our company for 16 years. Every morning since I started work as a little puppy, I would go to her office for some cuddles, pets and to play. I know that Grover, the last therapy dog would spend time with her as well, so I already knew she loved dogs. She was nice enough to keep a bone in the office for me to chew on and keep me occupied. While staff would stop by for her input on many matters, I provded comfort and comic relief. Thursday is her last day of work and this morning I thought about how on Friday morning, she won’t be there for me to greet. I am happy for her to move on to her next chanpter in life, but sad she wll no longer be part of my work day. I am learning that emotions can be complicated. Doc said we can go and visit her and she can come see us, but it won’t be the same.

I am starting to understand how routine and sameness help keep us calm if there is chaos and change around us. Doc said her dad taught her to stick to a schedule and modeled this even in the worst of times. She said the routine helped to act as anchor for her emotions at the times when life got tough. I supose it comforts the brain into thinking that at least a few things are still normal.

For today, I will focus on Doc, she is a constant in my life, providing me with structure, secutrity and safety. Other things may change, but she will be a constant in my ife for a very long time.