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 the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly
teach me the things you would have me do.
Speak to me often,
your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the
fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting 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
had you 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 worshiper.
Keep my pan
filed with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you if
it were 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 life be in danger.
And, beloved master,
should the great Master see fit to deprive me 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.
Written by Beth Norman Harris
Background music for this page is Whitney Houston's
"I Will Always Love You!"