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Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, 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 might lick your hand
between blows,
your patience and understanding will more quickly
teach me the things you would have me learn.
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 the sound of your footstep falls on my waiting ear.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet,
for I am a domesticated animal, and no longer accustomed to bitter
elements.
I know no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the
hearth.
Keep my pan filled with water for 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, my friend, when I am very old and I no longer enjoy
good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me
going.
I am not having any fun. Please see to it that my life is taken
gently.
I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my
fate
was always safest in your hands.
Author Unknown |