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
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 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 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.
