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 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.
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 you had 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, so that I may stay free
to romp and play and do your bidding,
to walk by your side,
and stand ready,
willing and able to protect your 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.
