Monday, November 14, 2022

Dean Powery Reflects on What Animals Can Teach Us


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With Thanksgiving approaching, Chapel Dean Luke Powery writes in the (Duke) Chronicle about how he is thankful for the ways his dog Niko reminds him of what's important in life.

When cleaning up after Niko during morning walks, he writes how he is "reminded—as I bend down as the 'clean-up crew' and touch the ground—that I’m from the ground, the earth, as a human being. It reminds me to stay humble and not celebrate hubris."

When playing with Niko after work, the dog's "behavior tells me not to be so serious all the time," Dean Powery says. "He reveals that there is always a time to delight in life and in one another."

Being with Niko, he says, "I am reminded of our call to care for the whole creation, but I’m also realizing how the created order (including dogs) is a part of divine care for me."

Read the article.