Lessons from Mo

More than 12 years ago this beautiful bundle of joy came into our lives and changed us forever. His passing leaves a gaping hole in our hearts and lives.

But he also gave us many lessons in life and love. And in a world that is in desperate need of more love and kindness – they are powerful personal reflections. With the wonderful people I work with I am always talking about how if we are really going to be part of urgent #transformation, we need to transform ourselves - individually and collectively. We have much to learn from our four-legged family members and friends.

1.?????Enjoying and being in the moment.

Mindfulness has become trendy - yet Mo showed us that simply every single moment of his life. He reminded us that the present is the only moment that matters right now, and that each moment is a gift. “Yay – we’re out on our walk!” ”What’s that interesting smell?” “I love the wind in my face and the sun on my back.” He didn’t worry about the past and the present, and all the complex thoughts we have rattling around in our heads, and all the things that keep us busy but often distract us from what is really important.

2.?????Loving unconditionally

From the moment he came into our lives Mo loved us and we loved him. No limitations and no strings attached.

There is an interesting body of literature (and science) pointing to the power of unconditional love.

When we feel compassion, unconditional love and kindness, our brains produce "feel good" chemicals. In addition to simply making us feel good, they help reduce stress chemicals, help boost our immune system, and improve other aspects of our health. This flows on to all elements of our lives - from personal wellbeing and relationships to career and financial resilience. Being in a state of unconditional love also means we are more able to affect the world in a positive, empowering way.

3.?????Being up for adventure

Sometimes we hesitate to take on new things or move forward on new journeys. Mo on the other hand was always up for the adventure of the day. “Yay, we’re going off in the car!” Even if it did end up at his least favourite places like the vet or the groomer, there was always the anticipation that we were off to do something exciting together and that never waivered.

?Having a sense of adventure allows us to challenge our own perceptions and mindsets about the world, learn to become more resilient and live rich lives that aren't bogged down by routine.

4.?????Walking more

In our busy lives sometimes it’s easy to put exercise aside for competing priorities. For Mo walks were one of the most exciting parts of the day. We loved them too and ensured a healthy number of daily steps.

5.?????Not being judgmental

?Dogs, like people, come in all shapes, colours and sizes. Mo always expected the best from other people and other dogs. And in almost every case that’s what he got. There is a lot of power in positive expectancy and being genuinely accepting and respectful of diversity.

6.?????Being grateful

?Being greeted as if you’ve been away for a week even if it was only for 5 minutes with a wagging tail, a happy howl and big lick – or the excited anticipation of heading off for a walk, Mo showed us that it’s not just about the treats and what’s on for dinner.

?Gratitude isn’t just for big occasions, or about the tangible things, and it comes from a mind-set of abundance for what we have rather than a deficit mindset of what we don’t have.

?The benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. It sits alongside unconditional love and feeds our positive emotions.

7.?????Playing and having fun

?Mo loved to play. He’d bring a favourite toy and drop it at my feet whilst I’d be working at my desk. If he didn’t get a response, things would escalate - a tap on my leg with a paw, a playful growl, or finally a big leap into my lap. “Please play with me!”

?A powerful reminder that we are never too old to play and just have simple fun. Play is important in our stressful go-go-go lives. Play releases those ‘feel good chemicals, improves brain functionality, and stimulates our creativity.

?Mo’s love and lessons are with me forever.

Mozart (Mo)

Schonhardt Mad About the Boy (mini-schnauser)

1/12/2009-6/5/2022