I had this stuck to my fridge for years...
A DOG'S PRAYER
by Beth Norman Harris
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of mine.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though you had no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshipper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.
And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest -- and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.
I still can't read this thing all the way through. It gets way too blurry and doubled-up, vision-wise, before I finish it...every time.
How anybody can ever be cruel to animals is beyond me.
Thank God.
(Hmmm. This thing is screaming for adaptation to wildlife, too. I'll work on it...)
Comments
1
Dear Stevie - I, too, can hardly get past the title before I can't see the screen. Having said that, however, thank you for posting it. I had to take that final step several years ago and this item has always consoled me that I did the right thing. Thanks, Terry
Posted by: Terry Reynolds at January 15, 2004 11:01 AM (0E8j5)
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