I love the dog analogy. I was the lost dog crouching and running back. I was first helped by a dear friend now gone physically from this world. Even then though I had to learn that no one could fill the void of what was not. No one can take away the pain that was. But we can learn to live here now and learn that the pain of the hurt is past and that though we can't go back and be nurtured the way all children should be nurtured, we can allow ourselves to be loved now. We can love each soul as we want need to be loved. It is all a gift from here. Life is hard. Bad things always happen. But we are able to sooth the starving dog and help the lady with the flat tire. I don't get pats on the back and I don't get famous or wealth but I am allowed in my life to be there for people in need and simply be human. Sometimes a hug or a pat on the back helps us know we are not alone and I rejoice in having the opportunity to do so. Every precious exchange is a gift.