The Wizard of Oz gave us Dorothy and Toto and a timeless message of love, vulnerability and hope.
Recently, I listened to an amazing "TED Talk" called the "Power of Vulnerability." It was all about embracing the courage to be vulnerable and authentically seen. What a paradox that only in our vulnerability (in which we risk rejection, even ridicule), are we able to find a sense of belonging, worthiness and love. What in the world does this have to do with dogs and the Wizard of Oz? I thought you'd never ask 
With a dog, what you see is what you get. They let it all hang out, without pretension or fear of rejection. If they do experience rejection, they'll take a short "time out," and go right back at their expression of love and desire to be loved. In a phrase, they're authentic. And their love is completely unconditional. Forget the bad breath, the bad mood, or the long nose hairs - our dogs just love us. They are not afraid to be vulnerable. Maybe that's why 60 million American families own a dog or two.
Will Rogers once said, "I never met a man I didn't like." Sounds like every dog I have ever known. So, as I am petting Bo today, I am thinking about his authenticity and vulnerability. He's never afraid to approach me, wagging his tail and expressing his love, even though I reject him from time to time. In response, how could I be anything but authentic with Bo? With no fear of judgement or rejection, I can always be myself - bad mood, bad hair or bad day. Now, that's a good connection!
P. S. By the way, what’s the deal with folks who say they are not “dog people?” Who doesn’t like unconditional love?? Just sayin’ 😬
