Had I not made the decision to participate in rescue,
I would never have had the chance to meet him. If
I had sat here comfortably in my home and said "I already
have four dogs and I know that I couldn't take in another -
even on a temporary basis," I would never have met this dog.
Yes, it takes time to rescue and foster... but who gave me
Time in the first place? And why or what was the reason I
was given Time? To fill my own needs? Or was there another
reason ever so small and seemingly insignificant, like rescuing
this one dog, that could make a difference in another's life?
Perhaps to add joy, hope, help and companionship to another
who is in need?
With great sadness, I sat down on a footstool in my kitchen
this morning and watched as this foster dog bounced back into
the house and skidded across the floor to sit ever so perfectly
in front of me. He was the picture of health, finally. He was
all smiles for me.... and I smiled back at his happy face. Deep
in his eyes, the storm clouds of illness and generalized poor
health had blown away, and the clear light of his perfection
radiated out from his beautiful soul. He holds no ill will
toward man. He forgives us all.
I thought to myself as I impressed this one last long look of
him into my heart, what a very fine creature You have created.
Tears slowly pooled and spilled over my cheekbones as the deeper
realization of how wonderful this dog is sank into my internal
file cabinet of Needful Things to Remember. Lord, he's a dog -
but he's a better human being than I am.
He has forgives quickly. Would I do the same?
He passionately enjoys the simple things in life.
And I have often overlooked them. He accepts change and
gets on with his life. I fuss and worry about change.
He lives today and loves today. And I often dwell in
the past or worry about the future. He loves no matter
what. I am not that free.
This very lovely dog has gone to his new home today and
already I miss him. Thank You for bringing this dog into
my life. And thank You for the beautiful and tender lesson
on how to be a better human.
By Grace Saalsaa