There was a lot of damage as a result of yesterday’s storm. Some homes were gone. Some were split in half. Tree branches were strewn about as if they were from a game of Pick-Up Sticks. Roads were washed away. Water systems were breached. Bridges, once standing strong had been swept from their moorings. Driving along through never ending damaged scenery was bleak; until one memorable scene changed the perspective.

Coming around a tight mountain turn, the car’s windshield framed a gravel drive punctuated with two figures. One of these figures was a young man with his hands gripping a rake. The other was his black, dancing dog.

The black dancing dog was darting side to side, front to back, reaching and snapping; smiling all the while. He knew his companion was there to work. He could see the rake being flung forward and dragging gravel and dirt over to fill the deep cuts the storm had created in the drive. Yet, the dog wisely turned the work into play while encouraging his companion to do the same.

Yet, his buddy continued to resist the friendly invitation. The man was resolved to focus solely on restoring the driveway underfoot.

Jackie Robinson, one of the great players of America’s Game never forgot the joy of playing ball while working. He once said, “Life is not a spectator sport. If you’re going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion, you’re wasting your life.”

Jackie Robinson and the black dancing dog both knew they were there, on the field, seeking success in their work. Yet, they also recognized the value of play, seeking joy outside of the grandstand at the same time. On the other hand, others, like this jovial-dog’s companion, continue to slog along with their focus on completing the task at hand without joy.

Work without entwined play will get the job done, but it never provides restoration to one’s soul.

One jovial, black dancing dog changed the work of restoring a damaged driveway into play. At the same time he offered restoration to his companion’s soul.

Lynn Butterfield is the host of American Dream TV, and a real estate and lifestyle expert. Check out his latest show at: bit.ly/3Bty96E or scan the QR code.