Sophie’s Joy

Written By Deborah Soltis

Dogs have a way of making ordinary moments feel extraordinary.

Sophie was one of those dogs.

Nobody was ever happier to see us walk through the door. She greeted us as if we’d been gone for weeks, her whole body wiggling with excitement

For Sophie’s birthday, we’d take her for an ice cream cone. Watching her savor every lick before devouring the rest was entertainment in itself. Bright eyes, wagging tail, and just enough ice cream on her nose to send us all into a fit of giggles.

But nothing got her more excited than the sight of my running shoes. She’d bounce around the house, barely able to contain herself. Ten years of running together, and you’d think every outing was our first.

At the dinner table, Sophie would sit quietly, looking up at us with those soulful eyes. No barking, no fuss. Just a patient, hopeful expression that made resisting her nearly impossible.

And then there was fetch. Or at least, that’s what the boys thought they were playing. They’d throw a ball or stick, Sophie would grab it, and off they’d go, chasing her around the yard, laughing hysterically, certain they’d finally catch her. But she was too quick, too clever, and far too delighted with her version of the game to let them win.

Sophie knew how to be still, too.

On difficult days, she’d come sit at my feet, leaning against me—her version of a hug. As I vented, she’d watch me quietly, head cocked, those big eyes full of understanding and concern. She never interrupted, offered advice, or talked back. She just listened.

Sophie brought us comfort. She made us laugh out loud. She filled our home with joy. And all we had to do was show up.

That’s the funny thing about dogs. We think we’re making their lives happier, one little pleasure at a time, never realizing how much they’ve changed ours.

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Deborah Soltis
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