The Comfort Dog Gave Me Pink Eye: Lessons From the Book of Esther

In the aftermath of 1 October, the largest mass shooting in the history of our country, Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School pioneered a school therapy dog program to help survivors and others impacted by the shooting. Esther became a symbol of hope for a school community in the darkest of days. Named for the Old Testament book of Esther, this fuzzy quirky dog lives up to her namesake. She captured the heart of a city while also unknowingly teaching about healing, comfort, and stepping into your calling even when things seem impossible. With biblical lessons gleaned from the story of Esther and humorous anecdotes about life with a temperamental celebrity dog, this book offers practical strategies for those looking to create a therapy dog program, those dealing with trauma recovery in themselves or loved ones, and anyone who is searching for the courage to answer God's call.

Courtney L. Burns serves as the director of middle school counseling at Faith Lutheran Middle School & High School. She holds a BA in psychology and an MS in school counseling. She is a Christian, wife, mother, dog lover, and high heel enthusiast. Esther Bean serves as the school's comfort dog and is a lover of cookies. You can follow their adventures on Facebook and Instagram @estherbeancomfortqueen.