For anyone who’s ever owned a pet, you know that there are many benefits that can be gained from that experience — unconditional love and loyalty, an almost always enthusiastic companion and greeter when you’ve come in from a long day’s work, a fervent partner in devouring everything from takeout pizza to steak or any other tasty morsels you accidentally drop on the floor!
That, and more, are what we’ve experienced with our adopted chihuahua, Peanut!
Peanut actually came to us by accident.
Several years ago, in early to mid-Fall, my daughter’s roommates were out walking their rural college campus, enjoying the beautiful hues of orange, gold and red leaves that the Midwest in October is famous for showcasing, when a car drove by and unceremoniously hefted Peanut and another chihuahua out the car window and into a nearby ditch. The girls quickly swooped Peanut and friend up and brought them back to their apartments to ensure they were well.
“P”, as my daughter affectionately calls her, was missing most of the fur on her backside, suffered a terrible flea infestation and several missing teeth — and would not allow anyone near her; she cowered in the corner of their living room, teeth bared as she warily eyed everyone in the apartment.
It was clear she’d not had the happy “welcome to the family” one hopes pets will experience.
Strangely, over the course of just a few weeks, my daughter and Peanut formed a bond, with Peanut following her everywhere she went, often clamoring to be held or to jump onto my daughter’s bed (not before the fleas were eradicated) and the rest was history — home Peanut came to us!
And who knew her joining our family would result in leadership lessons for us all!
Resilience — Although Peanut’s journey with her previous family wasn’t the fairy tale adventure we often see on TV, she bounced back and allowed herself to bond with our family fairly easily, affectionately showering kisses and snuggles the more comfortable she felt.
Trust — Building trust took a bit of time and patience. She taught us the value of trust in relationships —emphasizing the importance of honesty, consistency, and reliability — of regularly showing up for one another. And the ultimate show of trust — allowing us the opportunity on every occasion to rub her belly.
Courage — Despite being pint-sized, Peanut showed tremendous courage. She allowed us to show her love and devotion, and over time, she exhibited those same feelings toward us.
Joy in the Little Things — Although her start in life wasn’t ideal, Peanut has found joy in the simplest things — whether it’s going for a walk or snuggling up for a nap, she’s reminded us to appreciate life’s quiet moments and find happiness in everyday experiences.
Observing how Peanut has woven her way into our family (and our hearts), we’re reminded that having the ability to adapt and overcome, showing courage even in the toughest of times, trusting that our teams will show up with and for us and finding joy in the smallest wins — that leadership isn’t just about guiding others, it’s about inspiring, empowering and appreciating those around us.
Jeanne D. LoVette, DHA, currently serves as Designated Learning Officer. In this role, she leads the development & implementation of executive leadership programs. She has wide-ranging leadership experience, serving as interim executive leadership, and creating & standing up customer service & employee engagement programs during her more than 15 years with the federal government. She proudly served her country in the US Army and, as a servant leader, passionately ‘pays it forward’ by serving as a certified leadership Coach and mentor. Dr. LoVette completed a doctorate in Healthcare Administration from Capella University, has earned certifications in change management, and is Green Belt certified. She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), has volunteered with The Reading People Literacy organization, and is a Michigan State University alum who loves all things Spartan Nation!
*The views expressed and opinions written do not represent those of any Federal agency.
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