She stands with ears perked as she looks out the front window. Frost covered grass in the field must look inviting to her and she is captured by the cawing of the crows prancing boldly on the old farm road. Soon she will be curled up by the sofa taking in the warmth from the generous glow of the cast iron wood stove. The bustle of the Holiday is over and Gracie the Golden Retriever can now return to a routine of runs in the yard, watchful glances through the front window and ever so peaceful naps curled at the feet of those who do her bidding. Her servants are so thankful for her presence and her aptitude for staying close at hand. Even the servant’s daughter and granddaughter stand ready for Gracie’s desire to be close and lovingly touched. The servants have been trained so well that they naively believe themselves to be the masters. In the end, whether master or servant in the mind of the beholder, it is the nature and demeanor of the relationship that generates significance. It is in the act of serving that mastery is attained, not by command, but by example.
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