The dictionary definition of cute as “attractive, especially in a dainty way; pleasing, appealing, and delightful; charming.” (dictionary.com)It’s not pretty, good-looking, nice, friendly, interesting, or spectacular.
Cute is inhabiting a world all its own. It is especially suited to the person. Each of us might see ‘cute’ in our own way. Babies are cute (for some). Outfits are ‘cute’ for others.
For me, my dog Lucy is all of that, but I’m not sure why. None of the component parts work super well. I get that. I joke that it’s as if God had too much Playdough at the end of a long work-week and said, “What the heck?” And stretched it out to make something of it.
But the finished product, to me? Wow. Cuteness personified. Maybe it’s her smallness or the smooth luster of her coat, but people seem to warm to her. They don’t feel threatened. I’ve seen six or seven teenage girls circle around Lucy to pet her, knees on the ground.
Lucy is doing what? Licking a hand? No. Wagging a tail? No. Just being her cute, cute self.
I’ve witnessed big, macho guys reaching down to touch her delicately, with tenderness. Stories emerge of a favorite grandparent who once owned a dachshund. Smiles light the room. Cuteness is everywhere.
I celebrate this every day and feel lucky to have her. Not too many cute things in my life. But thanks for the introduction, Lucy. And for reminding me the world has many shades of beauty and many ways to describe it.
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