Daisy

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.
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 if 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 you 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, 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 own 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.

by Beth Norman Harris