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I met Mocha by accident, through a set of circumstances it would be hard to duplicate. However, once our eyes locked on to each other, I had no choice. I was hers and she was mine. Very quickly I transitioned from my role as half of a mature, empty nest couple to part of a household of two plus one. Just as the introduction of a newborn child is, at once, exciting, challenging, frightening and instructive, so too is the addition of any new entity into the family unit. Mocha, a 65-pound American Staffordshire Terrier/Pit Bull mix, entered my life and has not only changed it for the better, but imparted valuable life lessons as well.
Mocha spent her early years under unknown conditions since the animal shelter where I first saw her was unable to ascertain her origin. She had been found on the streets without identification, but obviously had given birth to puppies in the recent past. Certified as healthy and available for adoption, I quickly began the process and soon she was acclimating to her new home. Her calm and friendly demeanor allowed us to bring her to the office, so she spends her days working as a social ambassador, greeting visitors and welcoming staff, then relaxing at night at her alternative “home.”
With a long body and short legs, Mocha can flatten out with front and back paws splayed in a posture that is difficult, if not impossible, to alter without her approval. She can do this “rug hug” when entirely relaxed or if working to “glue” herself to the ground to avoid being moved from her chosen spot. She is pretty hard to miss even though she may think that by flattening herself, she has become unobtrusive. Since she wants to observe as many possible challenges or approaches by other beings from this position, she can, in reality, inadvertently become more exposed and vulnerable. Due to this quirky behavior, I have learned to be vigilant when walking with her. In spite of this issue, my intense feelings for Mocha remain intact and will not change but I have learned to adjust to her social dynamic and accept responsibility for it.
It strikes me that a similar dynamic is at play when considering my relationship with the political system, especially local politics. There is a natural affinity for an arrangement that professes respect for the value of my freedom as an individual while accommodating the overriding needs and responsibilities of group dynamics and ethics. As my bond with Mocha is deep and strong, so too, is my belief in the values and intent of our national charter [U.S. Constitution]. As human beings, however, our flawed nature, when confronted with difficult and unpalatable choices, can corrupt and skew thoughts and actions.
Current events and election shenanigans have put my beliefs to the test. Even though I remain faithful to the precepts of our democratic system, its reliance on the goodwill and fair practices of those engaged in governing is under tremendous strain. Mocha occasionally goes into a rug hug with the intent of blending into her surroundings and so too do politicians, trying to blend into group think, avoiding notice and actions that could prove detrimental to their careers. This risk, however, is the mantle of leadership. Those aspiring to lead must accept this responsibility or what is the point of their candidacy?
As economic and social pressures mount, it is especially important for our elected leaders to honor the confidence placed in them; to show strength and solidarity of purpose – rug hug – when convinced of a well-defined and righteous cause, but voice and act for change when needed. At this time, existential challenges including women’s rights and gun safety legislation are paramount even when compared with economic woes. Leadership needs to be clear and unequivocable when addressing these subjects; a rug hug just won’t do!
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