In my household, there’s a movement afoot to add a canine member in 2009. Whenever we tell people that we’re thinking about getting a dog, the first question is “What breed?” When I demur to answer, I’m usually told their views on the “best” dog breed out there.

Those comments always make me uncomfortable. After reading this post, I think I know why: I don’t want a dog that’s been “designed” to be perfect for our family. Seems like designing/breeding a living being so that it perfectly “fits” your life is the wrong approach. I know it is for me.

I want our family to go to the Humane Society and see the beauty in the dogs that Nature created. I want to look each of them the eye and find the one (or two!) where there’s a real connection. Beauty (like talent) is all around us. If we open our eyes — and our minds — we’ll find it in some unexpected places.

Thanks for the post.