Everyone must live their own life and endure their own personal struggles; however, such trials can be lightened or eased with the support of a special companion. These unique colleagues can range from many a thing including, people, pets, or even the meticulous comfort of a passing butterfly weaving freely through the air. In my case, I find my warmth and alleviation in my canine friend, Brutus. Effortlessly, he always seems to brighten my day. From sunup to sundown he overflows my heart with joy.
     Brutus was added to the family over a year before now. The saying is used excessively, but it is only fitting to say that I knew he would be mine the second I laid eyes upon him. One could just see the eternal delight within this pooch. It's as if he emanated an aura of good spirit and optimism. This dogs incredible ability to cheer one up on even the gloomiest of days is astounding. His short stature, yet innocent cockiness plays hand in hand to create a personality anyone can love and relate to.
     The wonderful thing about having a friend that's as disgustingly adorable as mine is the fact that a great deal can be lifted off my shoulders from the smallest little things. The feint pitter patter of paws against the hardwood floors as he's roaming and patrolling the house brings a smile to my face every time I hear. The fuzzy innards stuck on his lip after viciously yet playfully wrestling his toy from my clutches can stir up laughter in anyone's gut. The distant howels and whelps coming from outside after he's found sign of a rabbit or squirrel as if he feels obligated to tell the whole world what he'd found, forces me to stop and listen for what he'll do next.
     It's strange to be so strongly connected to an animal like I am to Brutus. I find myself reminiscing and thinking of him when I'm away. I see him as a person and quite honestly I think he sees himself as a person too. He sticks to a routine coinciding with that of my mothers and my own. He expects to be treated to equal rights concerning food, play time, and sleeping privileges. This all just adds to his unique charm and quirky delightfulness. He's always so eager for interaction, whether it be with people, other animals, or even inanimate objects. He treats everyone the same with a "let's be friends" attitude which gets him pretty popular with the neighborhood hounds.
     Brutus is and always will be considered as one of those special figures in my life. He has positively impacted me more than anyone else throughout my lifetime. I can be sure for as long as he's here that he'll be ready for me at the door every day, patiently waiting for me to get home. I'm very grateful for Brutus. He is responsible for my sanguine outlook on life. He is my buddy.