Sep. 14, 2021
ACCOMMODATION
A dictionary defines this word in the following way:
1. A convenient arrangement, a settlement or compromise;
2. The process of adapting or adjusting to someone or something;
3. Temporary lodgings;
4. An available space for occupants in a building, vehicle, or vessel.
Our household has been evolving in the second definition for the past twelve years. Technically our accommodation process involved growing from two to four adults, zero to three children and zero to two pets. Each growth has had its reward and challenges. We are now required to avail of the fourth definition by increasing our space for occupation.
Animals have been domesticated and became friends and companions to humans for a long time. It is estimated that dogs were domesticated 16,000 years ago and cats around 4,000 years. We have been cohabiting for a long time.
Covid and lockdown has generated a huge interest in getting, having, and keeping pets. All pet charities report huge volumes of enquiries and uptake of adoption of animals.
In addition, there is a body of evidence which points to the benefits of caring for an animal, from increased physical activity, increased body strength and the benefits of their companionship from the comfort of touch to the breaking of isolation. All great reasons to have a pet.
Over the past nine years I have watched how our rescue mutt, Dobby, as he has accommodated to his changing situation and here is the result of my observations.
So, as usual, read, enjoy, pass it on and send me feedback.
Latest comments
25.11 | 22:15
Grief is experience through the mundane. Simple but powerful. The accompanying image really compliments the poem.
07.11 | 11:14
Hi Peter,
A great observation! Social media can be a scary place... I also need to reduce my time there
Hugs,
John.x
06.11 | 16:24
A great one, Peter, in the context you describe. I don't read social media myself, I doubt my equilibrium could stand it. 'The balance of his mind disturbed' yes, I think it would be.
06.11 | 15:59
Yes, gossip is a weapon of mass destruction.
In my business as well as personal life I have zero tolerance.
Echoes of the Old on the New Battlefields
Warrior chiefs of the GAA were early on the field to prepare:
Posts and cones positioned to mark territories
Very young novices came later by parents’ chariots
clad and shod for the ensuing battles
Firstly, paced for speed, resilience and flexibility,
then marked off into opposing teams
Each warrior chief led a young squad of hopefuls
in further exercises to bring them to fit levels
There followed a huddle, an exhortation rant,
responded with clamour of intent and enthusiasm
Skirmishes began, speed across the field, hunt for the ball,
to be delivered as the goal, or to be prevented at all costs
Warrior chiefs egged on, instructed, altered the field of play
the young ’uns complied with fighting spirit
For every fall and hurt spells were cast on the side line
till fitness returned and they were entered back into play
Scores mounted, roars enhanced, casualties grew,
novices flagged and regrouped across the fields
Between bouts came the talks of encouragement
Stay back, pass, pass, pass, keep the pace.
Old hands passing skill onto new palms with dedication,
a gift of generous wisdom gladly given
Peter Clarke
20th April 2024