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Writer's pictureMaggie Maslanka

Lessons from Pierre… on playfulness

Updated: Jun 28, 2023


Have you noticed how many dogs just naturally know how to express love and playfulness, especially as puppies. I think I’ve laughed more in the last four months of knowing Pierre than across the last four years, which is indeed a sad reflection!


When he bounds across the meadow like a bat out of hell, when he tries to unsuccessfully catch a fly with his paw, or does a puppy bow to another dog then prances from left to right in excitement, I can’t help but smile.

As an ex-teacher, I recall learning about the importance of play for young children. It helps open the channels of creativity and fosters neural pathways to generate brain development. And the research continues to grow in this area, whereby play is seen as a critical process for learning. I think this research needs to be extended across the ages. Not that I need research as an incentive to play, when Pierre inspires me already.


And I can tell you as an adult, the times I’ve laughed the most have been when I’ve felt light and playful with friends, family or even strangers (when that weird thing happens that you can’t help but laugh with a stranger, like the time I walked into the men’s toilets accidentally then noticing others chuckling at my hasty exit).


I recently had liquid lunch with two friends after visiting the Van Gough exhibition. They’re both the type of friends who give you full permission to be completely silly and unvetted. I have to tell you, it’s liberating to be with other adults, yet feel like you’re able to be cheeky, take unflattering photos (that I’ll delete later) and rock a belly laugh with an occasional snort.


Adieu for now

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