Happy Birthday, QiJian – The Other Side of Paradise

Well, my darling boy turned nine today, and he’s celebrating by napping. Come to think of it, it’s like any other day. As his cancer has spread, this will most likely be his last birthday.

I received the following in an email from a veterinarian, which I have translated into English. (Forgive me for waxing sentimental here. )

If a dog was your teacher, you would learn things like:

When loved ones arrive home, always run to greet them.
Never miss an opportunity to go for a walk.
To experience fresh air and wind on your face is an ecstasy.
Take a nap.
Stretch before getting up.
Run, jump and play every day.
Improve your attention and let people touch and caress you.
Don’t bite. A simple grunt will suffice.
On sunny days, lie on your back in the grass.
When it’s very hot, drink a lot of water and lie down in the shade of a tree.
When you’re happy, dance.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something that you’re not.
If something you want is buried, dig until you find it.
When someone has a bad day, stay quiet, sit nearby and gently make them feel that you are there.
Enjoy each moment of each day.