A Dog's Prayer
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no
heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the
loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though
I should lick your hand between 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 had you 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 worshiper.
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 draw, my fate was ever safest in your hands.
by: Beth Norman
"A dog is the only thing on earth that
loves you more than you love yourself."
--Josh Billings