They say life is measured in big milestones with the daily grind in between. But they’ve lied to you. Life is really measured by late night study sessions, babies crying, losing that 10 pounds, and choosing your spouse even when they don’t deserve it. It’s measured in glasses of wine with your closest confidant, and doing the right thing even when you know you’ll still look bad in the end. By cleaning up puppy pee and then, just in the blink of an eye, carrying your 15 year old dog into the Vet for the last time. 

Amidst all that, it’s smiling at strangers, wondering if anyone on the planet has ever felt like you. It’s being on your knees begging God to protect your children at every turn. Putting your chin up even when you have no idea how to succeed.

I want more than what this world is capable of offering.

More beauty.

More goodness.

More love.

These things exist in souls. And hearts. Baby smiles. An old woman’s eyes crinkling. Belly laughs. That’s the thing, it’s the human experience. The mountains may jut proudly to Heaven. The ocean may be crystal clear. The forests may have that damp softness. The sun may renew the spirit. But none of it matters without love.

Ultimately, life is measured by how many times your dog kisses the tears off your face while you get the full human experience. As far as I can tell, it’s the only path forward. My purpose in this life is creating dogs to serve discerning humans who don’t want to settle for anything less than being the best version of who God called them to be.