Maybe we could learn something from our dogs. They always greet us enthusiastically even if we were only gone for a few minutes. They love us without reservation. There is a great truism that really fits dogs: A dog is the only one of God’s creatures that loves you more than they love themselves. The world would be a better place if we followed the example of our dogs.

I’ve read numerous funny emails about how being with a dog is preferable to being with people — no complaints, unconditional love. This morning, as I was scooping my dog’s poop, I realized that I could take a few lessons from my dog.

Always ready. Gingi could be fast asleep on her bed, but the minute she hears a footstep or a door open, she is up and frisky and eager to go. There’s no ramp-up time in the morning. No complaints about not getting enough sleep or being tired at the end of a long day or too busy with something else.

Never lazy. Even if she is comfortably snuggling on the couch with the family, if the doorbell rings, Gingi is the first one up to see who is there. If I’m comfy on the couch, I pause in hope that someone else will get the door, or answer the phone, or check the oven when the timer goes off.

Enjoy food. Even though she eats the same food every day, Gingi is always excited at mealtime. I’m not saying that I should eat the exact same food every day, but I don’t take pleasure the way that she does.

Ask for what you want. When Gingi wants to play, she brings her ball to the back door or nuzzles into your lap. When she wants to go out, she barks by the door. When she’s thirsty, she stands over her water bowl, then paws it if we take too long to notice. If I am hugging my husband or one of my daughters, she always nudges her way into the embrace for her share of the love. I frequently find it hard to ask for help or attention, hoping that my husband or children will read my mind or simply figure it out for themselves.

Hold no grudges. It’s been a busy week, so I haven’t spent any time in the yard with her, despite her daily attempts. She is always eager to play no matter what happened yesterday, or even five minutes ago. No pouting or withholding because she didn’t get what she wanted.

Relax. If there is one lesson that I really need to learn from Gingi, it’s the ability to simply relax and be. No agenda. No goals. No guilt. Simple, pure enjoyment of life.

As for that poop part of her life… well, there’s a lot to be said for high-fiber and no junk food, which she proves to me twice every day.