Puppy

By Querine Van Grinsven

During our reunion lunch at Mirepoix, we spotted a playful, happy puppy nearby, without a hint of trepidation. Few of us can keep our inner child from bouncing at the sight of a puppy. I find it nearly impossible not to go over and pet them! I do, however, observe and ask an animal’s permission before touching it, and can always send love and light from where I stand.

The Bond Between Puppy and Human
Since humans first welcomed pups into their lives, they’ve been symbols of friendship, joy, and protection. Whether as tiny guardians curled up by the hearth or as loyal companions on long journeys, puppies embody pure devotion. Their instinct to love and protect binds them to us, allowing them to play the role of gentle protectors and faithful friends through life’s ups and downs. And, as Diana has taught us, children in Atlantis were given puppies to teach responsibility and empathy. In return, the dogs lived closely with humans, nurturing the children and keeping them safe. This bond was one of mutual growth—a truly symbiotic relationship.

Puppy Legends
Around the world, puppies inspire tales that reflect their loyalty, courage, and playfulness.
The Welsh Cŵn Annwn: In Welsh lore, the Cŵn Annwn were ghostly hounds that escorted souls to the other side, embodying the faithful spirit of puppies, guiding and protecting those they love.
The Faoladh of Ireland: Known as the protective “wolf-people,” the Faoladh in Irish mythology often transformed into wolves or dogs to guard those in need, showing the mythical bond puppies have with humanity.
Foo Dogs of China: Though not technically dogs, Chinese “Foo Lions” served as guardians, symbolizing loyalty and protection—qualities we recognize in the watchful eyes and faithful nature of puppies today.

The Werewolf: The Mythical Canine Cousin
Puppies are close kin to the werewolf, an ancient figure symbolizing the protective, sometimes wild, spirit of the canine world. Werewolves appear in myths worldwide, from European folklore to Native American legends, often as powerful, protective beings. In these tales, they embody the dual nature of the puppy—gentle guardian by day, fierce protector by night, drawing on both playfulness and strength.

The Symbolism of Puppies
Across cultures, puppies are revered as symbols of loyalty, innocence, and vitality. They embody a zest for life and encourage us to live openly and freely. In Native American traditions, for instance, the puppy spirit animal represents guardianship, joy, and unconditional love, reminding us of the delight and comfort puppies bring to our lives.

Puppies in Literature
From the epic legends of Argos, Odysseus’s faithful dog, to the beloved Lassie and Balto of modern times, puppies appear in stories that inspire and uplift us. Their playful, loyal nature serves as a timeless reminder of friendship and resilience.

Connection to the Spiritual
The relationship between humans and puppies is deeper than their small paws and bright eyes might suggest. Puppies are creatures of joy, curiosity, and connection, bridging the earthly and the mystical with their boundless energy and gentle spirit. In every age, they have been loyal guardians, symbols of unconditional love, and emblems of our instinctual drive to protect and connect.

Lesson
The puppy came to us during lunch as if to remind us that joy is vital—even on a short break. Its message was one of playfulness and open-mindedness, inviting us to let happiness emerge from the inside out.