Part of a new weekly series, "Distinct Impressions" by Joey Cope. See contact information and links below.

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger. Proverbs 15:1 NLT

Ever wish you could converse with your dog?

I don't mean just talk to your dog. I mean converse with your dog.

I'd really like to know what my dog, Tipi, thinks about things. I'd like to know how she feels and what her view of her life really is.

Why? Well, she's my dog. She's been part of my family for almost 15 years. And, she's getting old . . . slowing down . . . growing deaf.

Actually, she's gone deaf. When I see her each day I wonder what she thinks about her condition. Does she even think about why the birds don't sing anymore? Or why she hears no fire engines racing by our house? Or why my mouth moves and why she doesn't hear me anymore? Does she have an opinion about my silence? Does she attribute it to my loss of love for her? What does Tipi think?

People grow deaf, too. Not just physically deaf — intellectually and emotionally deaf. When conversations stop, do they wonder why? Do they accept it as part of the cycle of life? When I'm the person who is now silent, do they know that I still want to have a conversation?

Tipi knows, I think. I've done everything I can to let her know. Extra pats, an occasional back rub, scratching her in that favorite place right behind her right foreleg.

When words fail, find another way to understanding.
I wonder, do I invest as much in people who have gone intellectually and emotionally deaf to me as I have in my dog? Have I looked for ways to communicate that I care? Have I found new ways to open the conversation?

I think Tipi probably doesn't mind being physically deaf as long as I scratch in her favorite place. I think she understands me even though the audible words have failed.

Has some conflict rendered someone you care about deaf? Do they see your mouth move but no longer hear what you say?

When words fail, find another way to understanding. Do something that communicates well. Scratch that favorite place.