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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 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 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 for 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 reproach you were it is 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 and 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.
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