Embrace The Scenic Route
At times, when we switch on the television or explore trends on social media, it can be overwhelming to see so much negativity and distressing news. Often, we wonder what world we’re shaping for the next generation. However, amidst these moments of doubt, a quote by the journalist Doug Larson comes to mind: “Bad news travels fast. Good news takes the scenic route.”
This thought has inspired me to embrace the scenic route, actively seeking out news that uplifts and stories that invite hope. Recently, I came across a story that does exactly that.
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If you could wish for anything on your birthday, what would you wish for? There was only one thing that Dr. Robert Moore wanted for his centennial birthday, and that was to be surrounded by his favorite thing in the world: dogs.
His deep-rooted love for dogs started at a young age, and it remained something that always brought immense joy throughout his life. Robert is actually referred to as “the dog whisperer” by his loved ones and is adored in the community. Little did he know that this year, he was in for the surprise of a lifetime!
His daughter, Alison, knew his love for dogs and wanted to surprise him for his big 100. Using an app, she reached out to neighbors with dogs, inviting them to stop by and surprise Robert to wish him a happy birthday. At most, she hoped, a few people would show up with their dogs to make his day.
On the morning of his birthday, Robert’s family set up a chair outside for him to greet the dogs; a giant card was set out for anyone to sign. Together, Robert and his family waited to see who would show up. They didn’t have to wait very long – and they were shocked by what they saw.
Neighbors and, most importantly, dogs came in droves. The dog greeting line wrapped around the block! Dogs arrived from every direction. There were little dogs and big dogs. Dogs in pickup trucks and dogs in classic cars. Dogs in dress clothes and dogs in cowboy hats. Dogs with birthday cards tied to their collars and dogs with flowers. Their owners brought gifts; children brought cupcakes. Most signed the giant card and took pictures with the birthday boy. Robert was showered with love, and there were smiles all around. Robert was especially excited to pet and learn the names of each and every one of the dogs. To their amazement, they estimated about 200 dogs showed up!
Robert loved every minute of it and said he was so grateful for his neighbors. Alison said her father was beyond delighted with the celebration. “It’s hard to explain how special it was. He really felt the birthday love,” she said. “They were mostly strangers. And… it just made you feel wonderful about your community, that people would come out and do that for your dad who you love so much. It was really special.”1
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Have you ever noticed how many people often feel isolated and alone? These days, despite the fact that technology can connect us with anyone around the world with just the push of a button, it can sometimes feel we all live on separate islands in the ocean. The days of borrowing a cup of sugar from a neighbor – or even knowing their name – can feel like a distant relic of the past.
The story of Robert Moore proves, however, that this doesn’t have to be the case.
We tend to underestimate the tendency in others to show up, to support, to help, don’t we? I found this story heartwarming because we’ve all had times in life where we feel isolated. Where we wonder if anyone around us sees us, notices us, cares about us.
A significant part of this story that I didn’t realize at first was Alison throwing out a line asking for help. It’s easy to forget that this is always an option. Alison sent a call out into the void with nothing but hope and pure intentions. And guess what? People answered. Neighbors answered. Strangers answered. Each united only by the fact they had a dog…and a desire to show love for an elderly man in their community. People who wanted nothing in return, who had no interest in accolades, no care for rewards, not even wanting a shoutout or recognition. No matter their motivation, they all ended up being there to share this moment of joy with him, for him. Robert and Alison were moved by this outpouring of love.
So am I.
Seeing how neighbors all over were able to unite to help out their fellow man was very touching to me…and it proves that we are not as alone as we sometimes think. Neighborhood, community…it all still matters as much as it ever did. And despite all the negative news we see on TV, there are plenty of good stories out there.
Sometimes, they just take the scenic route.
