And yet, I think we will get a dog soon. Why? To take away the silence. To bring life into our home. To distract us and get us outside.
Sometimes silence is sweet. Other times, it reminds you of what is missing. My mom friends may wish for some of that silence. Don't. You wouldn't enjoy it for long. No noise unless you make it. No entertainment unless you find it. No living person or thing that needs you to get up in the morning. No giggles. No pitter patter. Just you. Trust me, you wouldn't enjoy it for long.
Silence belongs in certain phases of life. This is not one of them. Empty nesters have years of noise and activity to remember. After the chaos of wedding preparation, newlyweds enjoy the silence of just being alone together. Don't get me wrong, we still enjoy being together. We are best friends. But sometimes, the silence is deafening.
We can and do distract ourselves. I think some of our bad habits may be efforts to distract ourselves. At the end of the day, our home is silent. So, we should get a dog, right? I used to laugh at people who had dogs instead of children. Dogs are obviously NOT children. But, they are alive, they depend on you, they entertain you, and they make noise.
This post is not intended to make you feel sorry for me. Maybe it can remind us all to be content whatever the circumstances, whether noisy or silent. Maybe it can remind us that God is enough. We don't need God and kids or God and a puppy; we need the peace and satisfaction that only He can provide.
For my friends dealing with infertility, how have you coped with the silence? Have your furry friends been therapeutic? What verses have encouraged you?
This post was linked up with Amateur Nester, WFMW (Works For Me Wednesday), Winsome Wednesday, and Rich Faith Rising.
We adopted a cat in January (actually he adopted us). He was been such a joy and brought us so much healing. My husband and I had a conversation last night about how he's really added to our family and how much we love him and can't imagine not having him. I think you're being smart in making sure you can properly take care of a dog and are ready for one before you adopt, but pets are so rewarding if you decide you can do it!
ReplyDeleteI can see how a cat would be therapeutic, too. My husband is allergic to cats, so hopefully a dog will work. Our new house has a fence, so it will be the perfect place for a dog. :)
DeleteMy dachshunds are my babies! I definitely agree with you on the silence issue!! That is something I have struggled with myself. I highly recommend you get a dog. Small ones aren't nearly as messy. Also they make great companions before kids and wonderful companions to the kids once you have them.
ReplyDeleteGood advice, Ruth. We were just discussing what size of a dog we want. For allergy and hospitality reasons, we need to get one that doesn't shed. Unfortunately, many of those breeds are expensive and/or a little too dainty. We would really like a medium-size dog. It's a tough decision!
DeleteAfrican ridgeback is pretty much the perfect big dog. Minimal shedding, only barks to alert danger, great with children, and overall very healthy. Maltese are a great choice if you like small family friendly and healthy dogs. I have yet to find the perfect medium dog. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the suggestions, Eric. Our decision may come down to what puppies are available in our area when we are ready to get one. We will see.
DeleteI have a little chihuahua. We bought her right after we got married but before we started TTC. I don't know what I would do without her. She is my heart and comfort and my "baby". I absolutely recommend getting a dog! They are so special and can help fill the silence.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the recommendation, Jessica. I think I'm convinced.
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