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 would 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 footsteps fall 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 the 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 not reproach you if it were dry, I can not tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding. In order to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should you 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 and grant me eternal rest. And I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.
