How did the canine become our best friend? Purpose, Empathy, Loyalty. We’ve all heard many tales of a dog’s courage, tenacity and sheer will to serve a greater good. We all remember the Faithful Dog, Hachiko, who dutifully held vigil for his master’s return for 9 years. Canines are renown for their heroic exploits during the many global crises in recent memory. May this Year of the Dog inspire us to emulate the canine instinct to live intentionally, walk in the shoes of the other, and remember the communities that we are beholden to.