For the past six months, I’ve been documenting my spontaneous encounters with the diverse dogs of San Francisco. What started as a whim became a sort of quest. I’ve learned that one cannot judge by appearances: the most ordinary-looking dog often has an extraordinary story. And so it is with people. The dogs that I met were tolerant, kindhearted, and authentic. They amiably wander the city, as shaggy mendicants, yet giving more than they take. They’re capable of heroism. They do tricks. However they see this world, I’m certain that it is not the same world we see. Sidewalks, the pull of the lead, if one is good, a treat. I suspect that they do not feel owned at all. These goofy, loyal pets are perhaps our guardians, and not the other way around. At day’s end, they still dream of rabbits, an ancient chase.
I don’t know what I’ll focus on next in this blog. Something to do with my book: God? Uncertainty? Please stay tuned. And don’t be surprised if the dogs return…
six degrees of separation 