It’s pretty silly. It’s one of those things that probably would be classified by most of us four-legged folk as embarrassing. But I don’t really care what people think. I know happiness. I know joy. From the ground up, it happens in these moments. Silly or otherwise.
When it comes to tricks and training, my dear forever mom has always taken the lead. From her, I’ve perfected sit, stay, roll over, play dead, give kisses, and a host of other talents I’ve come to know and love. While I love the treats (especially anything involving bacon or any imitation thereof), the joy I see run across the faces of my people is a treat in itself. 
What dad and I have is different. He’s been the primary initiator of my favorite family game (otherwise known as pickle in the middle), but lately he’s done more than that. He’s been my primary buddy ever since dear baby Carter was born, and though I had my reservations about this at first he has not disappointed. He’s surprised me with a number of new things, such as catch and (my personal favorite) hugs.
Here’s the thing. I know it’s pretty silly, but I’m not too much a (doggie) man to admit I need a hug from time to time. And the best part is, dad always seems to know when those times are. I don’t know how he does it, but that’s no matter. Because when he does, it’s the kind of moment us canines live for. “Wiley, come give me a hug,” he says. And I do. And I’m not lying when I say it brings my heart just as much joy (if not more) than it does him.
I think it’s something frequently forgotten about by people these days. And although I personally believe everyone needs a good hug from time to time, it doesn’t have to happen in hug form. It can be a smile. Or a caring conversation. Or anything really, that involves truly and sincerely caring for another being.
It probably sounds silly, but I don’t care. Neither did a favorite American poet of mine named Shel Silverstein, who once wrote “I will not play tug o’ war, I’d rather play hug o’ war. Where everyone hugs instead of tugs. Where everyone giggles and rolls on the rug. Where everyone kisses, and everyone grins, and everyone cuddles, and everyone wins.”
That is the kind of world I chose to make for myself. Won’t you do the same?
Wiley's Wisdom 
I am like you , I need my daily dose of hugs, and I go and get it from my children or the cat. I know he enjoys it because he purrs like crazy. I love that. We all need some form of love a day even when we know we are loved, but being shown it is the best part! ( my cat is just purring on my lap while I write this…. :-).
Big cyberhug for you Wiley, my favourite dog!
Yay for cyberhugs! They are (almost) as fabulous as real ones! But I’m so very happy to hear you get plenty of hugs from those beloved cats and family of yours – you deserve all the hugs a person can get!
Lots of love,
Wiles
It’s lovey to hear about you and your dads strengthening bond!!
🙂 Thanks, friend. I sincerely hope and pray all is well with you!
Shel Silverstein was the smartest (and cuddliest) man ever! And your dad is the second smartest. Hugs are the best. They make even the worst things better – and if not better then bearable. And they celebrate the best things with double the joy.
Love and licks and hugs,
Cupcake
Wow. I shared your comment with my dad, who knows the brilliance of poet Mr. Silverstein, and he was so very flattered to be number two to such a fabulous person. Thanks for your kind words and love, dear Cupcake!
Lots of love to you and mom,
Wiles
I’m all for hugs. Medical experts actually say that hugs can lengthen your life by reducing depression, and increase good hormones in the brain 🙂
I agree 100%! You are so smart, dear Lyn.
Lots of love,
Wiles
When I ask Mity is he wants a hug he runs a mile and hides under the table!
😦 You’ve just got to work with him. Take it from me, treats help. 🙂
Ha ha I would be he’s currently unable to have any treats, he has bad colitis and currently he is on a diet of eggs and boiled rice.