A Christmas Wish

My Christmas Wish

               It doesn’t seem like Christmas, and I don’t mean just the unseasonably warm weather.   While the stores have been decorated for months, radio stations started playing holiday tunes in November and neighbors have strung up light, the news tells a different story.   With Paris under attack, stories of child and animal abuse and mass shootings, we live in very sad times. 

               My wish is not necessarily for world peace; though it’s something we all want, I think it is a long way off.  My wish is much simpler.  My hope is that this holiday season we will all try to be just a little nicer to one another.  In our hectic lives, we often forget common courtesies especially with those with whom we are closest.  Let’s not forget that the people and relationships in our lives are much more important than the latest gadget or toy.  We have but one life on this earth and none of us knows just how many days each life will last.  We should spend our days not harboring bitterness and anger but giving love instead.  

Let’s all try to say please and thank you, to let that harried mom with two tired kids go ahead of you in line at the store, to wave that car in front of you in traffic, to smile at your waitress or cashier.  No matter what religion you are or whether or not you celebrate Christmas, spreading a little more kindness is something we can all do.  It starts with you and me.  It starts locally and spreads globally.  And it should carry on all year through, not just at the holidays. 

Our pets can teach us something love and kindness.  They give unconditional love, all the time, every day.  There is rarely if ever at time when my two dogs are not happy to see me, no matter what my mood.  Pets want nothing more than to be with their people (and to receive the occasional snack and daily bowl of food!).  And, while Frankie and Marty squabble with each other sometimes, they quickly make up and snuggle together on the couch each night.  I’m sure your pets do this, too.  They don’t hold grudges, they just have their differences and move on.  If only people were so quick to forgive and to give of themselves to others. 

Please consider sharing your time or money or performing small random acts of kindness to help neighbors and strangers alike.  We all make mistakes and we all need help once in a while.  It is part of being human.   Start now and make it a resolution to be nicer to others all year long. Something as simple as a smile or kind word can make all the difference. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all our clients and community.

--Dr. Walters

On behalf of all the doctors and staff of Paton Veterinary Hospital, I wish you all peace and joy this Christmas season.  May your pets and your families enjoy health and happiness now and in the coming year.

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.