A few weeks ago, I began the Spring routine of mowing my lawn. After the winter’s weather and shortened days, the lawn began to grow. Cali hadn’t experienced lawn maintenance very much since I rescued her in February. Cali was extremely interested in my weed whacker. She barked at the weed whacker and tried to nip at it. Knowing that if Cali got too close to the nylon cord, she would experience a very painful slap across her nose. After several attempts at keeping her away, she took the plunge and nipped at the rotating wheel. Sure enough, she got a sharp sting and a small cut on her nose. I felt bad for her and examined her. The injury wasn’t bad, and Cali went about her playful mood. I hoped she had learned a lesson to stay away while I trimmed. I was edging my lawn yesterday and sure enough, Cali began barking furiously. I’m thinking, “Cali, are you a slow learner or what? Don’t you remember your nose incident?” I kept telling her to stop and tried to keep her away from the dreadful weed whacker. In her determination, she began to nudge and pull at my pant leg. I scolded her and made her get away. Even though I do not totally understand dog language, I instantly had divine revelation. I realized that Cali was not barking at the weed whacker but was barking at me from behind. I believe she was trying to pull me away from this awful machine and was trying to keep me from getting hurt. I felt terrible. I hung my head in shame. I had totally misunderstood and badly judged my dog. Cali was trying to save my life. Instead of showing my appreciation, I scolded her. I went over to Cali, petted, her and told her she was a good dog. Dogs are very forgiving (that will be for another post-lol). James 1:19-20 states, “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires” (NLT). It is easy to pass judgment on others and to misunderstand their intent. Next time you feel offended by someone’s words or actions, take heed-they may just be using a weed whacker.
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