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In Buenos Aires, Argentina, a little boy is filmed by his mother having an endearing moment with their pet Labrador Retriever. The adorable little kid named Hernan Vegas is suffering from Down syndrome and his dog, Himalayan is dearly calling for Hernan’s attention. The Labrador is seen immensely calling for Hernan to notice her yet Hernan seemed unwilling to accept what Himalayan is crying out for. The sequence of Himalayan’s abstinence and unyielding nevertheless the obstacle, in the long run, rewards her with a crowning embrace from the shy little boy. And mind you, I felt a tear trickle as my heart fluttered.
This heartwarming video was published on YouTube on June 1st by Ana Marta Vegas (the mother) receiving around 4,500,000 views. She then contacted Jim Stenson, and he re-uploaded the film on the 22nd of September and had gone viral obtaining up to 16,000,000 views (and still counting!) more over gaining a breakthrough inspiration and utter awe from netizens all over the world.
The video starts off with Hernan sitting on the pavement together with Himalayan only a few inches away. The boy is evidently aware of Himalayan’s presence and is seen looking at Himalayan as if urging the dog to come closer. Then in the cutest manner, Himalayan budges towards Hernan and rests his paws on Hernan’s feet as though asking for a pat or his touch. The fascinating Labrador Retriever stubbornly –but charmingly- refuses to stop nestling her head on Hernan’s lap in spite of Hernan persistently turning him down. Repeatedly, Himalayan just keeps getting closer and remains insistent on refusing for Hernan to be left alone. While Hernan constantly shifts positions on all angles taking Himalayan’s paws off of his legs and feet whenever and remains unaccepting of the dog’s sugary and good –natured determination.
Hernan’s battle up against Down syndrome just makes this video remarkably sentimental. Despite the fact that it is a condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development, the most important fact to know about individuals with Down syndrome is that they are more like others than they are different.
Hernan’s mother Ana Marts Vegas, told Jim Stenson (the uploader of the viral video) via message, "Hernan, is a bit withdrawn and flees from physical contact. He does not like be touched, but Himalayan (the Labrador Retriever) insisted so patiently, and she was so soft that's why it is so moving, she is left to do anything.” Halfway through the film, Himalayan places his paws on Hernan’s shoulder persistently fighting Hernan’s adamancy. And just at the right moment, Hernan finally gives in and extends his arms for an unfathomably profound embrace (hint: at around 1:48 of the video). Though momentary and short –lived, in this (nearly) three minute video, you are surely to be left with a powerful message- That unconditional love is boundless, under ALL circumstances.
Hernan’s mother adds in her message to Jim, “I do not think that Dios commit errors, (God doesn't make mistakes) everything happens for a reason.” This video is proof of the many, many wonders and beauty enclosed in our universe that we have yet to see and soulfully come across with. God bless you, Hernan and Himalayan!
