A Battle of Wills

We have a battle of wills happening at our house and, frankly, it is uncertain at this time who
shall prevail in this struggle.

In the winter months, Rachel puts a little doggie sweater on our beagle, Lucy. She is convinced that Lucy is cold and she, therefore, needs and wants to wear the sweater.

Our other dog, Finley, who is completely and totally resistive to wearing a sweater—or corduroy pants, for that matter—appears to be opposed to Lucy wearing a sweater. Finley also refuses to allow Lucy to wear patent leather shoes, but that’s another discussion for another day.

So, Finley makes it her business to take the sweater off of Lucy.

In frustration, Rachel puts the sweater back on Lucy.

Finley takes it off.

Rachel puts it on.

Finley takes it off.

Back and forth it goes. As I said earlier, it is a battle of wills.

Lucy, of course, cannot talk—although she sends an occasional text message—so, we do not know her preference. As I carefully observe the look on Lucy’s face, however, she appears to be saying, “Would everyone please just leave me alone!?!”

But I could be wrong. That look could also be saying, “If you’re wondering about that smell, you might want to check behind the couch.”

This is a factor in the battle: In situations like this, Rachel will typically not give up very easily.

But this is a factor in the battle, too: In situations like this, Finley will typically not give up very easily.

I suspect the battle of wills shall carry on for quite some time. But for now, I’m going to go check behind the couch.