Still figuring it out...

Ferguson Dog Park might just as aptly be named Ferguson Mud Swamp.  Dogs just love it all the more.  The Golden Retrievers aren't gold very long.  Instead, every dog is the same color within minutes of being unleashed.  Yesterday Scout entered the fence like a bully.  Chasing down and snarling at a big black mixed breed who turned on her too before running off to his owner.  Scout got put back on leash and yanked into submission, crying the whole time like she was the one abused.  The big black dog’s owner came walking toward me, biker boots, jeans, muscle shirt, lots of tattoos and piercings, crew cut.  I prepared for the angry rebuke I deserved.  Instead, she knelt down to Scout and asked in the softest voice ever, "Hey sweetie, are you okay?"  "She's awful," I said, "She's in big trouble and I'm so sorry.  I don't know why she has to act like that sometimes. Is yours okay?"  "Oh he's fine," she said.  "He's just a puppy too.  They are still figuring it out.  It's all good."  

I mumbled something while my heart melted for how kind she chose to be with us. For reminding me that grace is grace, wherever it happens, whoever unleashes it.  

We didn't stay as long as usual.  Long enough for them to get filthy.  Long enough for Scout to get chased under a picnic table in terror by a three pound dachshund puppy ~ which was totally worth the wait.

I pray you give and get some grace today.  ~ peace & prayers, pastor annette