When asked to characterize our interactions with many of our co-workers, acquaintances and even friends, several words come to mind: performances, posturing, pretenses, disguises, disappointments and duplicity.
When we asked to characterize our interactions with pets, several words come to mind: simplicity, sincerity, sacrifice, love, loyalty and laughter.
Sadly, many of our interpersonal relationships have become as shallow as a birdbath in this increasingly high-tech, low-touch world we live in.
We often say one thing while thinking another, seldom telling people what we really feel and infrequently knowing how they truly feel about us.
Luckily, more than 60 percent of all Americans share our hearts and homes with pets. And it's our pets that help keep us human.
Our beloved pets, more than anyone else I can think of, are innocent of duplicity. They have no hidden agendas, no false pretenses and always turn inside out with the opportunity to interact with and delight us. They never withhold their true emotions like we humans so often do.
Our pets can help us focus on the way we should be each and every day. Like our pets, we should light up with happiness at the sight of our family members, neighbors and colleagues. Like our pets, we should spread unconditional love to all.
Just think about it: Do you ever feel depressed when your dog or cat lets you know how very special they think you are? I would bet the answer would be an unqualified no.
I know that our beloved dogs Scooter, Sirloin and LLLucky and cats Tommy, Colby and Krissi always bring a smile to my face and a gladdening to the heart.
If we can emulate the character traits of our pets such as loyalty, faithfulness, good spirits, love, affection and outright friendliness the kindest impulses of humanity will manifest.
And we will all shine a little brighter today and throughout the year to come.
Dr. Marty Becker is a veterinary contributor to ABC-TV's "Good Morning America."
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