Doglike Sensibilities

Evidently dogs can sense emotions from reading human faces, but I personally think it goes further: dogs possess an innate response to comfort those who are sad.  I first heard of this special doglike sensibility on my friend, Richelle's, blog. Her sweet dog, Sally, sensing the stress in Amber, went over to lay her little head on Amber's lap.  And once while staying at a friend's house, in the middle of the night I felt sad and frustrated, her dog, Rambo, came over to sleep with me until the morning. So all this gets me thinking....

What if I could have this doglike sensibility?  How wonderful would that be!  Without communication, I'd know if my friends were going through difficult times and be there for them.  But let's be honest, this is one of my crazier ideas.  I can't be like a dog!  Instead I'm inspired to make a more concerted effort to keep an eye out for those special needs of my friends.  I know that many people already exist with that sweetness and thoughtfulness that anticipates the needs of those around them, and I'd love to have that trait.  I suppose that's all bundled up in selflessness, isn't it?  When I reflect on most of my friends, I feel immensely blessed.  Each person in his or her own way nurtures my growth as a person.  So maybe I can't be like a dog, but I can be a better me.