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April 28, 2006
OFF LEASH: On gratitude
"Off Leash" is an occasional column by Fiddler. Past columns can be found here.
I have been known to beg. When someone is eating nearby, I stare up at them with large, sad eyes. I may even whimper quietly for effect.
This behavior is deemed unacceptable by some. I have been scolded repeatedly and reminded that there is plenty of food in my dish. True enough, but that's not the food I'm interested in at the moment. I eat that food all the time; it is bland and familiar. I want the food you're eating right now. Thus, the begging.
I should note that, on occasion, a morsel is slipped to me surreptitiously. It doesn't happen often, but when it does I am grateful. Truly, truly grateful. And in the words of French Catholic philosopher Jacques Maritain: Gratitude is the most exquisite form of courtesy.
Posted by teb at April 28, 2006 10:36 AM