Want to, Have to

A morning walk with Toby, a German shepherd, began as usual in a Spanish neighborhood where littering is a common issue. The author sternly warned Toby not to sniff discarded trash, but Toby, with a hangdog look, ignored the warning and resumed his sniffing. The author disapproved as Toby buried his nose in an old Kleenex, highlighting the problem of littering in Spain compared to the United States.

The author questioned Toby's actions, leading to a silent conversation between them. The exchange was not about modal verbs, but about reasons: "get to," "have to," "want to," and "need to." These are among the first words children use to assert themselves, and Toby, despite his age, was expressing himself through his eyes.

The author recalled a video sent by a friend, showing her one-year-old son trying ice cream for the first time. The boy's expressions and sounds, including a command of "Brumnn," showed his enthusiasm for the new experience. The author found the boy's progression from interest to enthusiasm amusing and surprising.

As the author watched Toby, he reflected on the quiet morning and the slow awakening of the world. He considered expressing his thoughts to Toby but decided against it, realizing that Toby already understood. The author acknowledged the fleeting nature of time and the world's constant beginning and ending.