Covid affects everyone differently. For me this relentless pandemic brought with it regular bouts of darkness (and sadness) shrouded with loneliness. The house has been unusually empty as our last little bird left the nest. That coupled with restricted social gatherings has made us, ‘new empty-nesters’, feel all the more empty. Ironically, I know I am not alone in my loneliness. I have spoken to so many of you who have shared your positive and negative COVID experiences (and I am not referring to PCR tests).

So, after months of talking about it, and praying about it, and talking some more, what we did to bring a little light into our lives will not be for everyone, so please don’t judge… We got a puppy!

Yes, she is a lot of work.

Yes, I have not slept as soundly (or as long).

Yes, she has piddled on my carpet.

And yes, it is worth it. This little life has brought more joy, and entertainment into our lives than we could every have imagined… actually, I have been imaging this for years!

We are dog people and our decision feels right.

Luna came home last Tuesday and our life has been turned right side up and I am so grateful. She has brought some levity and play into our lives. If you are a dog person, you get it.

Last week, after conducting a difficult funeral for the son of a wonderful Amberlea couple, I went home to be greeted with all the love and adoring enthusiasm a 4 lb puppy can muster. Let me tell you, it is paradigm shifting! She really is a joyful bright light.

Luna is the Latin word for moon.

The bible refers to the moon as “a faithful witness in the skies” (Psalm 89:37).

And I love Psalm 136:7-9: To Him who made the great lights, For His lovingkindness endures forever; The sun to rule over the day, For His lovingkindness endures forever; The moon and stars to rule by night, For His lovingkindness endures forever; (Amplified Bible)

Where do you find joy and light these days?