Dog Day Afternoon

It's no secret that I love dogs. There's something wonderfully joyful and therapeutic about their presence. Every dog that I see has a story, but I'll stumble upon a dog or two that I really want to know. It may be a gaze, a flick of the tail, or an extended paw that greets me. I love that they are so full of trust and wonder.

When I went to the bank yesterday, I saw this guy. He looked so contemplative and sincere. I wanted to just sit in my car and talk to him, as if we were neighbors in a drive-in theatre.

All I have of him is this picture, and I'm so glad that I do. I can't stop thinking about him and his gaze.

On Solidarity

On Solidarity
© Rhianon Elan Gutierrez
March 10, 2012

I look forward to the day when we all can just work together in solidarity.

I look forward to the day where we aren't calling each other names.

I look forward to the day where we stop shutting each other out.

I am not lost because I am a member of different communities.

I have learned so much from each community of which I am a member.

I cherish my position in each one and hope that I am seen as a valuable and empathetic member.

I am not "less than" because I cannot do something.

I have many skills and ideas that should be respected.

I am always open to learning new skills and communicating about new ideas, but I ask that you acknowledge my learning process.

I work at a pace that is my own, and each decision I make is a step towards asserting my independence and acceptance of myself as a valuable human being.

Please actively communicate with me. Ask me questions. Do not shut me out.

When you label me and assume things about me, it not only hurts me, but it hurts those close to me - those in my community.

I want you to know how much I want to work with you.

I want to be treated like I matter, and treat you like you matter.

I really do look forward to the day when we can be next to each other, moving forward in solidarity.