Allow me to introduce Buddy, or perhaps I should say allow me to introduce Marc and his faithful companion, Buddy. Buddy is a dog who thinks he is a person. I met Buddy at Starbucks. He was laying on the floor looking happy a couple of tables over. His companion, who I soon learned was Marc, said, “Buddy go say Hi!” Buddy immediately stood up and walked over to my table with a friendly expression that seemed to say, “I expect to be petted after going to all this trouble.” The next moment, I found myself petting him behind his ears and all his other favorite places. It is easy to underestimate the power of expectation when it comes to both canine and human affairs. Dale Carnegie mentions this phenomenon in his classic self-help book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” He suggests that we imitate the tail wagging advances of a friendly dog when approaching strangers. Of course, in the absence of a tail, we have to make do with a friendly demeanor.
After Buddy introduced us, Marc and I became good friends. I soon learned that Buddy was a very special dog indeed. Buddy and I had a lot in common. In addition to being particularly attentive at meal time, we both loved Starbucks. The air conditioning was nice, the baristas made sure we had plenty of water, and we both enjoyed the whipped cream. All you had to do was say the word “Starbucks” and Buddy and I both perked up! Buddy was practically human. He communicated by tapping with his paw whenever he wanted something. He tapped on the car window if he wanted it down. A tap on your leg indicated that more ear rubbing was needed. I swear he even licked his lips and tapped your leg with his paw when he wanted water!
Buddy soon became the center of attention at Starbucks. Everyone marveled at his friendly disposition and incredible communication skills. I couldn’t help but notice that Starbucks seemed more welcoming and more friendly after Buddy arrived! Everyone seemed to want to come over and say hello! I also couldn’t help but notice that Buddy had a special way with the ladies. That sly old boy was a veritable chick magnet! This phenomenon was duly noted and much appreciated by both Marc and myself! I soon realized that Buddy’s presence was indispensable when it came to seizing the moment and living the good life!