I live with two large-ish dogs, both adopted as seniors. One spends nearly all of his time on one of the many dog beds in my room. He rearranges them, sometimes piles them up, but is most often found snoozing comfortably, stretched out across two or three of them.

The other usually can be found at my feet, by my side, or posted somewhere where she can keep an eye on me. This can be a problem for her when I’m doing housework, because I crisscross my home, picking up this and putting away that. She’s never quite sure where she should be in order to stay in close proximity.

I like the companionship that she provides, and find myself talking to her as if she understands. Often she does. When she doesn’t, she’s content to listen and wait for a word that she knows, and then respond appropriately.

To be honest, it’s the supportive nature of her presence that I value the most. She quietly and efficiently watches out for me. Even now, late at night and snoring gently, she immediately sits up when I change position in my chair, ready to follow. If she could, she’d turn off the lights and tuck me in as I climb into bed.

I don’t know why I’m telling you all of this, since I had planned to write about Moses and the depth of humility he showed in this week’s Torah portion (Tetzaveh) when he prepared his brother to become the high priest. Moses allowed himself to fade so far in the background on behalf of his brother that his name is never mentioned. He was there, but it was Aaron’s time to shine.

Of course I’m not likening my dog to Moses. His love and humility transcended that of most humans, much less a dog’s.

But when I think of the blessing that Moses bestowed on Aaron by taking care every detail to prepare Aaron to become High Priest, I think of how comforted Aaron must have felt. And the comfort I feel.

Tonight, I feel the shared comfort and love of the two biblical brothers. And the pleasure of my four-legged companion, as well as the blessing of love and comfort from people near and far who care about me. The friend who called me one of his favorite people on the planet. The daughter who reached out to me with happy news and then cheered for my own happy news. The friend who texted simply because we hadn’t spoken in 24 hours.

Tonight, I am happy.