Only Rocks

Today, my youngest son gave me my Father's Day present. It was a small plastic box with two rocks taped on top. It was no surprise then when I opened the box...it was also full of rocks, different colors, different types. I absolutely loved this gift! For it was so much more than just rocks...it was...the essence of being a little boy.

When I looked at these rocks, it brought up memories of my "little boyhood." Playing in the dirt...catching bugs and snakes...finding cool rocks. I place a high value on those rocks as did my son when he gave them to me. "Here Dad, here's some really cool rocks...Look at them! "

I started wondering how many older guys would still find amazement with these rocks or just look at them as "only rocks". There is so much that I do not know about in this world, but...I do know that there are treasures all around for us to freely enjoy. Some are these sparkly...colorful...different shaped rocks.

When I see a grouchy old guy, I ask myself, "What happened?" I try not to judge him harshly, as I do not know how or what life has given him but...I'd rather have the heart of a little boy than the heart of a grouchy old guy.

I've recently met someone in another country who is like one of these "rocks." It's funny how dogs can bring people together. This individual has a true desire to learn all he can about dogs, their capabilities, their wonders... In comparison to the amount of people in the world, there are not that many people who have a true, honest desire to learn. So finding this guy was like finding a really cool rock...something of value.

We have treasures all around us, everyone does. As a rule, they get harder to see as you get older. Your day is full of these treasures. Can you see them? When I was my son's age I looked at dogs as "cool treasures." I just wanted to be around them. Not for any other reason but to just be with them.

The natural progression of life and certain people have tried to rob me of these simple joys of just being with a dog. There are many cruel and empty souls walking around out here. Souls who look at dogs as only a tool - to be discarded when no longer needed or useful.

Me...I like to keep the childlike joy close at hand when viewing dogs. Just like that bunch of rocks - they are common, but... It's up to you what value you place on them.

Thanks, Josh - you're right - those rocks are cool!