I was waiting for the lift and a neighbour came with her huge golden retriever. She is really beautiful like the one in the photo below.
I think most people know golden retrievers are gentle and affectionate by nature, so I wasn’t worried a bit even as she advanced toward me and then stood still at arm’s length trying to read me with her charming eyes.
When the lift came, I went in first and pressed the hold button for them, but before the owner could react, an elderly man jumped the queue and threw a look of disgust at the dog and her owner. The owner reluctantly signaled me to go on without them. It is fair to say I wasn’t impressed with the man’s behavior.
The elderly man then speaks to me: “Do you own a dog?” To which I replied “No” with a weary smile knowing what was coming next. ” I never understand why people have dogs, it’s a complete waste of time!” He shook his head disapprovingly and looked at me, seemingly expecting me to sing the same tune.
While his words weighed nothing on me, I felt compelled to respond: “Well……although I don’t keep a dog I can appreciate why some people want it and also understand why some people don’t, ” trying hard to maintain my neutral tone. Seeing I did not side with him, he then left rather awkwardly.
Most people didn’t know I love dogs. My uncle once gifted me a black Pomeranian named “Ah Girl,” and she stayed with my family for a good few years until she left us for good (not dead but mysteriously ran away). My sister also had a playful Shish Tzu named “Coco” for many years, and we had wonderful memories together. Dogs are men’s (and women’s) best companions, and I was blessed to have them with me.
Sometimes, what others do may not align with your so-called “standards” but that doesn’t give you the right to put people down. Despite our differences, we must learn to respect each other.
