When a cute and dynamic puppy arrives, she draws the attention of the writer and photographer, of the people who read about life here. It is easy sometimes in the heat of puppy love and fun and craziness to overlook an animal who lives in a perpetual state of grace and kindness. To live in grace means to live in goodwill, in kindness, love, benignity, gentleness, empathy.
Someone wrote lovingly of Red that he was so graceful with our new puppy Fate that he was preparing to step aside, the older dog whose work is ending. But this is not so. Red is the loving and working spirit of the farm, he is healthy, vigorous, eager and the glue that keeps the place together.
He cannot be replaced, not now or ever. Watching Red every day with Fate, or coming to the gym, or doing his therapy work, I see a spirit that is kind – Karen Thompson, who gave Red to me, says kindness is the word she most often uses when she thinks of Red. He is unfailingly gracious, gentle and accommodating. He connects to people in as powerful a way as I have ever seen a dog do.
He has the great work ethic of the border collie, but a sense of peace and generosity about him that is rare in any animal.
This morning, I went out into the backyard to take some photos. Red, as always, came out with me, he goes everywhere with me. He lay down by the gate and watched me, happy to work if needed, happy to lie still if not. He is trusted and accepted by every animal on the farm, from the donkeys to the sheep. Fate adores him.
He is patient and affectionate to everyone he meets. Red is a great dog and companion, he lives and works in a state of grace. I appreciate him every day of my life.