Benji and the Cold

Benji was lounging in the living room, which was not unusual.  However, Benji was wearing mittens and that was a bit different.

“Hey, Ray,” said Benji, “I’m already to go outside!”

“OK, seriously, Benji,” I said, “Why are you wearing mittens?”

“Well, Ray,” Benji replied, “I don’t know if you’ve been following the weather lately, but I have learned that it is cold outside.  So I think maybe I should put on some mittens.”

In a certain sense, I found it difficult to argue with the dog.  By the way, Benji isn’t really that smart.  He doesn’t win every argument.

Examining the situation once more, I noticed that Benji wasn’t entirely successful getting those mittens on.  They didn’t really fit his paws, and one had already fallen off.

“The only problem, Ray,” said Benji, “is that these mittens keep falling off.  I really don’t know how you people keep these things on.”

“Yes,” I said to Benji, “Some kids definitely have the same problem keeping their mitts on.”

“So, a little help please,” whined Benji.

I tried to help Benji.  In fact, putting mittens on a dog is about as hard as you are imagining it to be.

“Listen, Benji,” I said, “I think we’re going about this all wrong.  Why are we trying so hard to put mittens on you, when God has already provided you with everything you need?”

Benji looked at me, inquiringly.

“Think about it, Benji,” I went on.  “You’ve got all this fur.  What do you need mittens for?  God already knows what you need, and he gave it to you.”

“So, I don’t need mittens?” Benji asked.

“No,” I said.  “You already have fur.  The Bible says, ‘The Lord is my shepherd.  I have everything I need.’  In fact, the Bible says that God will give you more than you need.” 

“So, since I have all this fur I don’t need mittens?”

“No, Benji,” I replied.  “You don’t need mittens.”

“OK,” said Benji.  “Let’s go outside.”  And ever one for adventure, Benji asked, “Do you think I can try out some snowshoes?”