Rebel Without A Cause: Whatever Was I Thinking? by Margo Hoornstra

Think Rebel Without A Cause. To quote Wikipedia, "The story of a rebellious teenager who arrives at a new high school, meets a girl, disobeys his parents, and defies the local school bullies." What kind of images come to mind? The smoldering hot and handsome bad boy, of course. Sexy and daring, maybe with a chip on his shoulder. An edge of anti-social behavior about him. (Delinquent is such a strong word.) Whether with motorcycle or without, definitely swoon worthy. Though I never have seen the movie, I can certainly relate.

However, after this summer, I'm thinking a little different kind of rebel, thanks to a dog named Buddy.

Let me explain. A few years ago, my youngest son rescued a little dog. Abandoned as a puppy, Buddy is one of the most loving and gentle dogs I've ever met. A pacifist by nature, when he's out and about on his leash, Buddy avoids conflict and confrontation at all costs. But give him the opportunity to meet new dog friends and play, and Buddy's all over it, with gusto.

Fast forward to last month. It's Summertime in northern Michigan, and we're camping at a Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ with the kids and grandkids. Jellystone, where they're big on kids and activities complete with a real live (in costume, of course) Yogi Bear. A bear so popular, the times for his appearance are posted in advance so eager fans can stop by for a hug or high five. Maybe even a picture. Often, this bear would travel around the park is a golf cart, with his handler beside him since Yogi doesn't drive, perpetual smile in place, waving and nodding. Having a good time.

Fast forward again to the day before we leave. I'm coming out of the bathhouse just as Yogi and his escort drive by. Though it's early afternoon, no one else is around. All of a sudden, I'm inspired.

"Hey, Yogi. Can you make a personal appearance?"

His lady driver answers for him. "Sure!"

"Great! My grandkids will love this." So proud, I quickly lead them down the lane to our spot. Only one of my grandsons is there, and my son, and Buddy...

Yogi and company pulls up and stops. Undaunted, I make my best ta da gesture!

Still smiling, Yogi leaps from the cart. Unfortunately, at seeing the newcomer Buddy does some leaping of his own.  Keeping his distance, but barking like a man, er dog, possessed. Poor Yogi freezes, mid wave, as Buddy's tirade continues. Okay, so if you leave out hot, handsome and sexy, we had our own Rebel Without A Cause going on right then and there. Rebellion? You bet. Anti-social? I would say so. Chip on his shoulder? That barking behavior had to come from somewhere. Although now that I think about it, Buddy seemed to be as startled as Yogi.

Not to worry, though. All would be well. We were finally able to convince Buddy (Yogi too) that it was okay. No one was going to get hurt. We even managed to get a picture. Buddy wasn't invited. ;-)

Enjoy these last days of Summer, Everyone! Fall will be here before you know it.

My days to blog at the Roses of Prose are the 11th and 23rd. For more about me and my stories, please visit my WEBSITE