Treat
Me Kindly
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 should 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 ear.
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 the 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 worshipper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water,
for although I should not reproach you were it dry,
I cannot tell when I suffer from thirst.
Feed me clean food, that I may stay well,
to romp and play and do your bidding,
to walk by your side, and to stand
ready, willing, and able to protect you
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 in your hand.
By Beth Norman Harris
1968
