As the year comes to a close, it’s important to reflect on the moments that have brought joy, growth, and love into our lives. For me, one of the brightest spots of this year has been watching my grandpuppy, Bodi, grow and thrive.
Bodi, with his unbelievably long legs, boundless energy and playful spirit, has been a source of constant delight. This year, he has transformed from an adorable pup into a handsome young dog, full of character and charm.
Part of the joy that Bodi has brought into my life is being able to share his journey from anxiety to joy with all of you. He’s been such a teacher of what we know to be true here at NeftTi: that love and kindness for the current state of a nervous system, without trying to force it to change before it is ready and feels safe enough to do so, is the one and only way to supply the conditions under which the natural wisdom of the living being will emerge.
This brings to mind the profound wisdom of Toni Morrison, author of The Bluest Eye. During the early days of parenting my son, Bodi’s Dad, when I was struggling with overwhelm and postpartum depression, I was gifted with her words: “Do your eyes light up when your child enters the room?” Her words changed me. It became my mantra for my child to know his mother delighted in him, just because he existed. I wanted him to see joy in my eyes every time he walked into the room.
Now, today, seeing that very child delighting in his pet companion, truly feeling the gift of being able to spend time with Bodi, is the best gift in the world. Bodi’s journey from a scared little pup to a joyful, confident dog is a testament to the power of being unconditionally loved and accepted, no matter where we start from.
I’m going to share two pictures of Bodi – one of him dressed like Mufasa, the Lion King, for Halloween. This picture perfectly captures Bodi’s regal transformation from a scared little pup into the confident king of his world. Seeing him don his mane with such pride and playfulness is a testament to the power of love and patience.
And I’ve saved the best for last – the other picture shows Bodi waiting for the New York Subway. Yes, you read that right, waiting for the New York subway! Who would ever have expected that the terrified little pup who wouldn’t come out from the corner when he arrived from South Korea at 7 months old would be confidently and curiously riding the New York subway from his home in Chelsea to Central Park? I am flabbergasted and so, so proud of him.
I’m equally proud of his Dads, Kev and Nick, who have consistently surrounded him with unconditional love and absolute joy in his presence. In fact, after they texted yet another photo of Bodi lying in the sunshine of their condo, I texted back, “What must it be like to be loved just because you exist?” Isn’t that the heart of true happiness? To feel that warmth, knowing that we are cherished for simply being ourselves, without needing to prove a thing?
Bodi’s story beautifully embodies this truth. It’s through unconditional love and the quiet, constant presence of those who accept him that he’s blossomed into the joyful, confident soul he is today.
Enormous gratitude to everyone who played a part in bringing Bodi into our lives and continues to play a part in reflecting the joyful being that he is!
Wishing you much love, joy, and a little bit of Bodi’s infectious enthusiasm for life.