Simon, the Big Galunk, taking time out from a family game of ‘Simon Says’. Photo by D. Paul Graham, Lilburn GA 2024

“Monday 5 Things”™ ….. Simon Says …..

I delight in watching family laugh when we are together. Last weekend in Atlanta, the giggles of a 6-year-old granddaughter infectiously filled the house as she played “Simon Says” with her uncle.  However, there was one other Simon in the room.  The other Simon, our granddog, is a 65-pound English Bull Terrier, who thinks he is a lap dog, and whom I affectionately call the “Big Galunk”.  Every time someone said, “Simon Says”, Simon would jump up, and with all his Galunkness, would wonder what the heck was going on and try and get in on the action. Simon’s sense of curiosity, playfulness, and outright confusion at hearing his name repeated made us all laugh.  We can all learn things from dogs and Simon, the Big Galunk, inspired some life lessons for this week’s M5T.

1.TREATS & DOORBELLS. Ever noticed how your dog can hear the faint rustle of a treat bag from three rooms away but is suddenly deaf when you ask them to come inside? Dogs have mastered the fine art of selective hearing. As I’m sure that many a spouse/partner reading this missive may be accused of, but I won’t go there. Beside treats, no matter what is going on in the house, dogs are four-legged alarm systems. The instant dogs hear a doorbell, they metamorphose into a barking, spinning, whirling dervish of protective fury. Dogs do not discriminate between UPS, FEDEX, the mailman, the pizza delivery guy, or your pesky neighbor back to borrow something else that won’t be returned. They approach every doorbell opportunity with equal measures of enthusiasm, skepticism, and caution. An approach we can all learn from.

2.STICKS & SCRATCHES. Ever notice how excited dogs get over a simple stick? It’s a reminder that joy doesn’t have to come from grand or expensive things. Sometimes, the simplest pleasures of a stick, a ball, a squeaky toy, a walk in the park, a scratch behind the ears, or a good old-fashioned belly rub can make their day. Next time you’re feeling down, skip the retail therapy and find a park, a friend, or perhaps a sunny spot on the floor. Bonus points if you eagerly roll around on your back while you’re at it.

3.NAPS, WALKS & CAR RIDES. Understand the importance of naps. Dogs are professional power nappers. They can fall asleep anywhere, anytime without apology or guilt. When you get tired, take a nap; preferably cuddling with one or more of your pack. Imagine how much better our lives would be if we all embraced the power of a good nappy like dogs. Stressed at work? Just curl up under your desk. Just maybe not in the middle of the office hallway. Need a break from a family gathering? Find the nearest couch and doze off. A well-timed nap can recharge your batteries and give you the energy to face the rest of the day. If napping won’t work for you, take a walk or go for a car ride. Dogs never turn down the opportunity for either, regardless of the weather or time of day. They’ll bounce around like it’s the greatest adventure ever. We could all learn a thing or two from that kind of enthusiasm. So, next time someone suggests a stroll or a drive, channel your inner pup, grab your metaphorical leash, and wag your way to new experiences.

4. BARKS, TAILS, & PLAY. Find your voice and let people know what you’re thinking. If you want something, ask for it. Bark, sit pretty and use those eyes. If you’re happy, wag your tail. If you’re sad or frightened, tuck it between your legs, but always stand firm. Dogs teach us that it’s often best to let your body do the talking. Show your joy. Do a little happy dance. Never hold back on kiss. Nuzzle a hand if you want to be petted and encouraged. Be full on when you play. Be excited. Always be ready to fetch a ball or chase a squirrel. Run as fast as you can. Bring the toy back to your playmate over and over and over and over again.

5. PACKS, SQUIRRELS, & LIVING. Your pack is everything. Always, always protect your pack. Watch your pack. Listen to your pack. Find ways to bond with your pack. Know their ways, their emotions, their smells; what makes them happy and what makes them sad. Be really, really excited when your pack comes home – even if they stepped outside for a just a few minutes. Never, ever give up on trying to catch the squirrel. This could be the day you catch it. Don’t let fear stop you. Mark your territory. Embrace your personality and idiosyncrasies. They are yours; let them flourish. Dogs have an incredible ability to live fully and, in the moment, every day. It’s like dogs realize they have so few years to live with us and they make the most of time. Be like your dog. Show compassion. Love passionately. Don’t hold grudges and forgive quickly. Make today a new journey. Enjoy the small things. Sniff everything on your walks. Hang your head out of the car window. Dig for treasure. Make treats and meals an adventure every day. Find the light patch. It will warm you.

Here’s to a week of embracing sticks, squirrels, naps, walks, and above all, your pack.

Paul is passionate about people, culture, photography and business. He has embraced his wanderlust with his travels around the globe and is at peace with his need for spirited drives in all things automotive.

For over 12 years, D. Paul Graham has published “Monday 5 Things” ™, also known to readers as M5T™.  He still gets excited about naps, treats and car rides.

You can reach Paul by email at dpg@imagegraham.com

“Monday 5 Things” ™ and M5T™ are trademarks of D. Paul Graham