A Dog's Prayer

	A Dogs Prayer

A Dog's Prayer

Treat me kindly, my beloved guardian, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for your love and kindness than mine.

Do not break my spirit with harsh words or with a stick, for although I would forgive you, I learn much better through your patience and understanding 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 I hear you call my name.

Please want me with you always, for my joy springs from your attention, and I ask no greater glory than your love and the privilege of your company.

Please keep my bowl filled with fresh water, and feed me clean food that I may stay well to romp and play. I live to be with you and make you happy; to walk by your side, standing ready to protect you with my own life should your life be in danger.

And, dearest one, if my suffering is too great, please see that my leaving is gentle and loving, and that you stay with me to the very end as I have stayed with you.

My beloved guardian, I will give you all the love I have to give, and I will keep all the love you give to me. I shall leave you then, knowing even in my sorrow, with the last breath I draw, that our time together was precious and beautiful, and that my life was always safe in your hands.

~ Beth Norman Harris
©1991