Seven Wishes

On Sunday, May 26th, it’s someone’s birthday. If you read my second book — the one about a special dog with a big dream —you know I’m talking about Bruno. Today he turns seven, in human years.

He asked me to let you know that on account of his seven years of life, he made seven wishes. Get this: They’re not for him.  He made the wishes for you. I know, soooo canine! 

  1. Take a walk today. If you can’t walk, sit outside. Just try to move your body in some way. And smell everything.

  2. Listen well. When someone speaks to you today, really listen. Look, be attentive, and listen like there is nothing else and no one else in the world. Tilt your head a little if you want.

  3. If you don’t understand someone today, get a little closer. Seek understanding. They’ll feel your sincerity. Maybe you can put your paw on their forearm.

  4. May your eyes to light up when you see your people coming. Whether they’ve been away for a minute or a month, let them know you love them by turning on the lights in your eyes. If you want to be like me, you can wiggle your hips too.

  5. Forgive someone. (Maybe it’s you. Maybe today is the day you’ll forgive yourself.) I start every day like it’s all brand new.

  6. If you don’t know what to do, just show up. Sit with someone. You don’t even need to speak. You can rest your chin on their shoulder. Or maybe they want to rest their chin on your shoulder.

  7. Fill your day with enthusiasm! For waking up! For your meal! For the doorbell! For the new person you meet! (Please don’t overwhelm the people like I sometimes do — I tend to spring up and down when I’m excited). But definitely bring your joy!

Abstract painting by Stephanie Himango

To celebrate Bruno, this year I decided to use some pages of the book and create something new: an abstract painting. This is it.

Enjoy your long weekend, have fun and please take care.