The Pudelpointer Chronicles: CARRYING CAPACITY

Recently our family went through the "in-home hospice care" and the "passing" of my mother. Cascading emotions and behaviors came into play when the needed "in-home 24/7 care" doubled from what was expected. We began to need "outside help". That's when members of her church--The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons)--stepped up to the plate.

They were magnificent! These "Angels of Mercy" clothed as everyday citizens freely gave their aid. Day after day, they provided help well into the night and even into following days.

I asked myself, "This world is filled with 'my', 'me', 'mine' and all other forms of selfishness, but these people aren't. Why? What makes them so different?" It was then that I had a "mini-revelation"--an "epiphany". The words came to my head "Carrying Capacity". I felt a rush of understanding as I realized that these people had served all their lives in one capacity or another. They were experienced in helping others.

When Mormons agree to be baptized, they also agree to "bear one another's burdens" to make them light. This simple covenant seems to be the basis for God building up a strong people--with large "carrying capacities". When everyone was losing their perspective and focus, the Latter-day Saint people calmly ministered with the capacity of professionals. Helping where needed, they were outstanding. They were a "blessing".

A little help here??

Carrying capacity (my definition/examples): the ability of a structural beam to support a physical load; the ability of a truck to carry a load; or the ability of a person to endure and carry a physical or emotional load.

It seems that the more we engage in such behaviors of service, the stronger and more capable we become.

These individuals were focused on "service"--helping others to bear their burdens and to improve their lives. It is part of their religion and done on their own time. To these Latter-day saints, serving others was serving God. They were confident and skilled.

The beginning of "Hold"

Pups and "Carrying Capacity": The principles of developing "carrying capacity" also apply to training our pups. The more a puppy is provided with meaningful, fun, and learning moments; the greater becomes its capacity to do work, to exert self-discipline and become an obedient and cooperative animal--in other words, greater becomes the pup's "carrying capacity". Genetics are a great starting point, but beyond that lies much required training and repetition, fun, rewards, and encouragement. If you want a great hunting companion or simply a great canine companion, spend the necessary time and allow nothing to over-ride your commitment. It may be painful at times, but a soft hand, soft voice, measured instruction with praise and rewards will get you where you want to be. K-Lee and I are working on that, and her "carrying capacity" improves every month as we work together.

Maybe someday, K-Lee and I will have the "carrying capacity" that those Latter-day Saints displayed--a capacity beyond measure...maybe.