#12 Understanding

Bhopal - 5th October 2021

The dog that roams near the mess has been acting up lately.

He has been attempting to bite students on their way to the mess, going for their ankles. However, the dog isn't vicious. It's clear from his slow approach and wagging tail that he's not out to get you: He wants to play.

Last night he finally got too far, he sunk his teeth into the trousers of a student and tore it apart. Luckily the student wasn't seriously hurt.

"That bugger needs to be relocated", the student exclaimed later.

"We've thought about it, but relocating stray animals from their territory is actually illegal in India." replied another student, "Plus, he just wants to play, but he is being too aggressive about it. The vet vaccinated him last week, said he is having anxiety, probably from the sudden influx of students. For now just ignore him when you go by, don't look into his eyes."

It does work, if you completely ignore him - even when he is approaching you, he might ignore you as well. No one likes being ignored.

Later that week, I see a boy sitting on the ground and petting the dog. He seems to share a magical connection with animals: like he speaks to them and understands their language. The dog seemed comfortable and calm."

"How is he not biting you?" I ask.

"He feels understood. He was anxious and lonely. And everybody was too scared to confront him and try to understand him."

"Understanding is the most valuable thing you can give to someone."

"It might change one."