Five years ago, Monte encountered his first taste of fear.
As you’ll see, he was confused. We could all learn something from Monte’s response to fear.
# # #
We’re in another new place called the South.
I don’t know what that means—it’s just another place with unique smells to check out. But I have noticed something I don’t like very much.
People keep asking Becky and Rich if I bite.
It started a few days ago. Strangers began to shy away like I’m dangerous or scary or something. And even people who seem to like me are slow to approach, asking Becky or Rich if I bite.
What a weird question. Of course I don’t bite! Why would anyone even ask that? In my whole life I don’t think anyone’s ever asked that.
I do bark once in a while, but that’s just my way of saying hello and playing. A dog’s gotta let folks know who’s in charge, right? But I’ve never bitten anyone.
Why would someone ask that before they’ve even met me? Frankly, it kinda hurts my feelings.
I guess dogs must be different here. Some people still fall all over me, but it’s not the same.
I’m glad I don’t live in a place where people are afraid of me. I think it must be awful to have fear as a first reaction to something new.
I think people here must be afraid of lots of things. Maybe this is a scary place. Maybe there’s a reason to be scared that people know about, something I don’t understand because I’m just a dog. I always just trust people; it feels yucky to be with people who are suspicious and afraid.
They hide it most of the time, but if they’re afraid of me they must fear other stuff.
I think that’s sad.
# # #
Monte’s a simple, trusting, loving soul. He expects others to respond the same way. Irrational, baseless fear confused him.
Sound familiar?
Monte wrote, “I think it must be awful to have fear as a first reaction to something new.”
I agree.