Today, many people are standing up for their rights. They have the “right” to do so. Most of the time, this is as it should be. We have been standing up for our rights for decades now and probably will be doing so until humankind gets it that we are one, with one human voice.

What folks need to understand is that Your Rights can’t step onto my Rights. It’s like the Golden Rule, “Do onto others as you would have them do onto you.” Let me put it another way. What if we have two mats sitting on the floor? I’m on one, and you on the second. As long as our mats are separate and have distance between them, all is well. Once you decide to put any part of your mat on top of mine, we have a problem. You are stepping on my mat/rights.

When my dog Sarge was attacked by another dog eighteen months ago, I was devastated to lose my beloved seventy-thousand dollar Seeing Eye dog in a matter of seconds. Now, that woman on the street had the Right to walk her dog; however, when her dog attacked mine, her Rights went away. Why? Because they caused me harm. When your Rights effect my Rights, (your mat on mine) then you don’t have the Right any longer.

As for me, I didn’t know my Rights. I didn’t know that any person who allowed their dog to cause interference a Seeing Eye dog could be charged with a class three misdemeanor. I allowed her to step all over my mat, causing me to have a safety issue.

It’s important to know your own Rights and feelings and turn them into constructive positive action. I’ve taken my pain and anger and have chosen to write blogs, go on radio shows, podcasts, and to make educational videos regarding the importance of other people controlling their dogs.

The important thing is to learn how to take responsibility and respect others, and their mats, and request the same of them on your own behalf. Look inside and take note of what is making you feel like, “I have the Right.” What way can you change that feeling and turn it into something good? There is always a good in every situation. If you are angry, what other way can you use your voice and actions? Can you write blogs or articles? Can you participate in changing governmental policies? Can you go on the TV or radio? I challenge you to take your Rights and allow them to be your passion and voice for change.