Dogs and mystics. How do they compare? Do they possess features of such merit that by observing them, interacting with them, and measuring them side by side, we might discover qualities--an essence to emulate--that could bring peace and comfort to our highly complicated, stress-filled lives? If we follow our canine teachers' fine examples of courage, strength, tenderness, loyalty, and love, our reward will be the gift of grace. Dogs are at ease with spontaneous, authentic moments, their approach to life's events is not dominated by the logic to which we humans often succumb. They achieve a greater participation in life as they draw upon all their senses. In addition to the intangible, the capacity to protect, to intuit, and to be patient, dogs truly live in the present moment, and authentically experience all that life has to offer. They are our steady friends, warm, reliable, light-hearted, and supportive. They share our achievements and sorrows with faithfulness and trust. And, if we are able to emulate these qualities, the lucidity and rich potential of each moment comes into clearer focus. We are stronger and wiser as we follow our soul-directed paths.