Take the High Road
Dear Frankie,
Yesterday the dog park was almost empty. I asked Rufus if he knew where the dogs were.
He said, “Maybe at Scooter’s birthday party.”
This was the first I had heard about a party.
When I asked Rufus, “Were you invited?” he said, He thought so, but parties weren’t “his thing.”
I’m not saying that Scooter and I are tail-wagging buddies. We have, however, known one another for years and co-chaired several fund-raising events for the park
I still can’t get over that Rufus was invited, and I wasn’t. Everyone knows Rufus has social anxiety and hates parties. Do you think I should tell Scooter how upset I am?
Elaine
Dear Elaine,
First off, it’s unrealistic to expect that you will be invited to every party thrown by a dog from the park.
Also, why do you assume it was because Scooter didn’t see you as a friend? Before you jump to any conclusions, perhaps you should consider what might be other reasons for not receiving an invitation.
Just off the top of my head, here’s what came to mind: Scooter’s mom limited the guest list to five male friends or neighborhood pals or teammates from his agility class.
I’m sure there are a gazillion other possible reasons, none of which have anything to do with how Scooter feels about you.
When you see Scooter, how about wishing him a belated happy birthday? Why not take what the humans call the “high road.”
I understand it’s not easy to be gracious when you feel overlooked, but most often, it’s the wiser route to take.
Best, Frankie
© 2021 Geneva Woodruff
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