What dogs can teach us about life and death?

Answered by Frank Schwing

Dogs have a unique way of approaching life and death that we can learn a lot from. They embody qualities such as acceptance, living in the present moment, and finding joy in the simplest of things. When it comes to death, dogs often exhibit a grace and dignity that is truly remarkable.

One of the most striking things about dogs is their ability to live in the present moment. They don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. They are fully present and engaged in whatever they are doing, whether it’s playing fetch, enjoying a belly rub, or simply lying in the sun. This ability to be fully present allows them to savor every moment of their lives, without being weighed down by regrets or anxieties.

When it comes to death, dogs seem to have a natural acceptance that many humans struggle with. They don’t fear death or try to avoid it, but rather seem to embrace it as a part of the natural cycle of life. Dogs don’t waste their precious time worrying about when or how they will die, but instead focus on living their lives to the fullest. This acceptance can teach us to let go of our fear and embrace the inevitability of death as a natural part of our own journey.

In addition to acceptance, dogs also teach us about finding joy in the simplest of things. They can find happiness in a game of fetch, a walk in the park, or even just a snuggle on the couch. Dogs don’t need material possessions or grand achievements to experience joy – they find it in the everyday moments. This reminds us that true happiness can be found in the small things in life, and that we don’t need to constantly strive for more in order to be content.

When it comes to facing death, dogs often exhibit a sense of peace and tranquility. They don’t resist or fight against the inevitable, but instead seem to surrender to it with grace. I have witnessed dogs who, in their final moments, seemed to radiate a sense of calm and acceptance. They were able to let go and transition peacefully, without fear or pain. This ability to face death with such grace is truly inspiring and can teach us to approach our own mortality with a similar sense of peace.

Of course, it’s important to acknowledge that every dog is different and not all dogs have the same experiences or reactions to death. However, there are many stories and anecdotes that highlight the unique way in which dogs can navigate the end of life.

Dogs have a lot to teach us about life and death. Their ability to live in the present moment, accept death as a natural part of life, find joy in the simplest of things, and face death with grace and dignity are all lessons that we can learn from. By observing and learning from our canine companions, we can strive to live our lives to the fullest and approach death with a similar sense of acceptance and peace.