My calendar tells me today is International Dog Day.
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So I’m sharing something I came into recently. It’s called “The 10 Commandments for a Responsible Pet Owner” by Paul Harvey.
Harvey was an iconic radio broadcaster. He was also an animal lover.
He also knew the “secret” to emotional writing.
More on that in a moment.
First, imagine your dog—or any pet, really—saying this to you:
1. “My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.”2. “Give me time to understand what you want of me.”3. “Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.”4. “Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. But I have only you.”5. “Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.”6. “Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.”7. “Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, and yet I choose not to bite you.”8. “Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long or my heart might be getting old or weak.”9. “Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old.”10. “On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so.”I showed this list to Kelsey.
She read it and teared up and hugged our pup, Sydney. “These are all so so true,” she said.
ah.
Want your writing to stir emotion?
Sadness.
Anger.
Love.
Joy.
ok.
The “secret” is simple:
Tell The Reader something true. (Or, more accurately, something The Reader perceives to be true.)
Because the truth, as you know it, will almost always make you feel something.
LEARN TO PERSUADE
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Hey there, thanks for reading. :)If you want more “micro” content, feel free to explore 100s of articles, interviews, courses, and series — all free. Enjoy!Eddie Shleyner
VeryGoodCopy, founderP.S. If you like VGC, you’ll love VGC Plus. Instantly unlock every post right here.
