Dog Days Of Summer

Hot, hazy, humid days! These are the dog days of summer, the hottest days of the year. Traditionally, Dogs Days run from July 3 through Aug. 11. The ancient Romans had an explanation for this phenomena: It was during this time span that the Dog Star, Sirius, appeared in the summer sky. The Romans believed that the heat of the Dog Star, added to the heat of the Sun, made for the hottest days of the year. We no longer believe that; but we continue to talk about the Dog Days of Summer. Traditions die hard.

In every political, social and religious organization the younger generation asks: "Why are we doing things this way?" The older generation always replies: "Because we've always done it this way!" Traditions die hard.

Sometime long ago, someone began to do things in a specific way -- perhaps for a good reason. As times and people changed, the traditions remain unchanged. We still talk about the "Dog Days of Summer" and have no idea why.Traditions die hard.

Traditions, however, are not timeless. There comes a time when every tradition outlives its original intent, and is no longer useful or usable. The old ways are not sacred. Just because we've done it this way for as long as we can remember, doesn't mean that this is now the best way of doing things. We must always look at our traditions, and be prepared to change them to meet our current situation. The "Dog Days of Summer" might be a good time to re-evaluate the "old ways." Traditions can be changed.

"Every dog has its day." So said Erasmus in 1545. What was true then is still true today. Each of us, sooner, or later, will enjoy a time of good fortune and will have days of happiness and satisfaction. The good days will not go on forever; neither will the bad days! Life moves to a rhythm -- day-night-day; summer-fall-winter-spring; dark and stormy days will give way to days of sunshine and rainbows. There will be times when we cannot see our way out of our predicament; and there will be days when doors open to new solutions and possibilities for living.

The heat and humidity of these "Dog Days" will soon be history. September lies ahead of us with the promise of cooler, calmer days. Every dog does have its day; and every one of us will experience both bad days and good days. So, on these hottest days of the year, let's relax, and let's rejoice in whatever life brings our way. For every experience is a learning moment that can lead to the building of a stronger character and the deepening of one's faith! Let's start our own tradition of depending more on God.

-- Dr. Don Kuehle is a retired United Methodist who lives in Jackson.