Are you as dumbfounded as I am at some of the recent commercials on television? (I won’t even go near the political debates.) And the commercials are so clever that sometimes I’m not even sure what they’re advertising! I tend to prefer the more direct approach like that of the a toilet paper commercial – “Everybody has to go, so why not enjoy the go?” Those words would never have entered polite conversation thirty years ago, and now they invade my home during the evening news, and I’ve begun to think it normal. And even worse, I’m writing about it.
One product that grabbed my attention and caused me to stare at my husband in total “flabbergasterment” is a vest for dogs with anxiety problems. It’s advertised as a well-designed, wrap-around vest that exerts a gentle, constant pressure. The inventers believe this kind of pressure has a calming effect on the nervous system of canines, helping your Fido overcome fears, anxiety, and excitability. Being calm helps the dog to focus or refocus and allows training to be more effective.
I suppose swaddling a newborn is based on the same principle. But truly, wouldn’t you want a vest you could just slip on and all your anxieties and fears would melt away? If it really works, I want one. I figure it would fit me if it will fit a sheep dog. And it comes in heather gray, navy and pink. I’d pay $39.95 for the pink one.
Thanks to my friend Van Williams for this photo. He walks with our Father in beautiful places.
The great news is our Father offers us something better — He offers His peace and His presence from the inside out. No commercial needed, just word of mouth witnessing. No 800 number to call, just breathe a prayer. Always the right size and color, and He doesn’t ask for our credit card. Although I’ll warn you, there is a bit of upselling, but it’s always worth the extra cost.
His presence in our lives offers eternal security and a calming effect that allows us to focus our thoughts and feelings in a more positive, constructive direction. The fears and anxieties may not flee, but His presence can change our focus from our present circumstances to things of a more lasting and eternal perspective. And the best part – His presence is absolutely guaranteed to work, and it’s simply free. Just take a walk with Him and see.
Now back to the product–it is recommended before attempting to put the vest on your dog for the first time, you should use it as a plate for your pet’s food, a manipulative trick to create a positive association. Now ponder that for a while. By the way, should you choose to buy this product, I get no commission. And you should know the product is not guaranteed to work, but they say you can get your money back if it doesn’t. Good luck!
