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 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 footsteps 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 drew, my fate was
ever safest in your hands.
Author Unknown
