image by the talented and fabulous lara blair
Last night as we were settling in for slumber, Le Pug began shaking. Not out of the ordinary considering he often chases god knows what in his dreams. However, the shaking turned to convulsions, frothing at the mouth, and panic on my end.
He’s never had a seizure and we’re in the woods, nearly an hour from the nearest emergency vet. While Le Beau stroked him and comforted him, I clumsily danced around the living room in shock calling local vets, then emergency vets.
The ordeal was over in about two minutes, but the anxiety and questions remain. What is happening? What caused it? Will he be okay?
Afterwards Le Beau repeatedly told me I did good. Meanwhile, I was a mess running around, looking for my phone, and placing calls in what felt like sloooowwww motion. Although I appreciated his kind reassurance, he’s the one who handled it smoothly.
Upon further research from Dr. Google {my favorite go-to resource}, you are supposed to stay calm and comfort your pet during the seizure. Good to know!
Reflecting on my response and Le Beau’s response, I see I’ve got ample room to grow. As the above quote reminds us, it’s about our reactions to life’s obstacles. Yes, even your beloved son’s first very scary seizure.
Mindfulness does not happen in a vacuum. It is our continued ability to be fully in the moment, feel into the experience without judgment, and respond with awareness. Oh, the ongoing lessons to learn.
As you move about your Monday, pay attention to one patterned reaction you have and try something new. Do you walk briskly everywhere? Practice Thich Nhat Hahn’s encouragement to “walk as if your feet are kissing the earth” as you saunter to your next appointment.
These little shifts make a difference and may even allow you to evoke calm in chaos. Sending love. And patience. Bisous. x
