Friendships are forged and withstand the tests of time and various situations, but are all built on the same things, Love, compassion and respect. These are the foundations of all true friendships.
Molly thought back over the years and tried to remember how many times her Mom had told her, "Do unto others as you'd have done to you little girl. Your friendships are a gift always remember that".
As they walked farther into the woods nearing the stream the rowdy group of pups fell silent, listening to the birds singing throughout the forest and the wind blowing through the trees. Entering a clearing they saw a small building with a faded picture of what looked like Mt. Rushmore painted by the front door. Getting closer they could just barely make out writing that said Mt. Dogmore, with dogs faces carved into the mountain instead of presidents. Peering intently at the picture they were able to make out Tanner Bub, the esteemed Foley and Pocket dog, and the colorful and artistic Zoe Boe. They had read all about these famous founding members in their Tanner Brigade history class.
They talked and talked and simply couldn't figure out what they'd come across. Stepping inside they found a table and chairs. Molly, excitedly said, "This is the secret clubhouse we read about in our history classes!!! It really does exist and we've found it!!
Catching Molly's enthusiasm the group of friends started looking at the papers scattered across the table. One of the pups nonchalantly picked up an old water stained paper and casually began reading. out loud, "Tanner Brigade Creed". The other pups stood still, listening attentively, " First and foremost all pups will treat others as they desire to be treated". This is a simple rule and should be simple to understand and follow.
Secondly, "If you want kindness and consideration in your world, be the first to put it there. Let love, respect, kindness and consideration begin with you. Soon you'll see it's practiced everywhere you go.
Finally, friends whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely and admirable, let these things begin with each of us all. (Philippians 4:8)
Relationships can be challenging and require give and take, so following this creed will be difficult at times, as is the case in all things that are truly worth having. I promise let these be the rules you follow during your life and you will find yourself rich with friendships that will last you a lifetime.
Suddenly Angel Foley appeared in a burst of bright light before our group of adventurous pups. Looking at the young furiends standing before her she smiled and said, "I see you have found our secret clubhouse. No one has ever ventured this far into the forest before. It was your destiny young Tanner Brigade pups to find our creed from so long ago.
Tanner Brigade was founded on friendship and a firm determination to stick together through thick and thin. There was a lot of love, joy and happiness shared here in this clubhouse. I think you pups have what it takes to continue carrying the Tanner Brigade Torch. Just remember friendships are always and forever..
There are seasons for everything on Gods earth and in Tanner Brigade. There's a season for being together and there's a season for being apart. All you have to remember is friendships are truly always and forever, and let love, peace and kindness begin with you."
Looking at each other the three said simultaneously, "Always and Forever." Angel Foley smiled at the young pups knowing deep in her heart that indeed friendships and Tanner Brigade are always and forever. In a magical burst of bright light she disappeared as suddenly as she'd appeared, leaving the young friends to carry on the TB legacy.
Love, Molly and my Mom
The Tanner Brigade Logo Heading this Blog is the property of Angel Foley Monster. Drawn by her dear friend Zoe Boe and her Mom Connie Gross.