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This background was created from the image of my old friend Kobuk. This page is lovingly dedicated to the memory of Kobuk, Thordyss ap varg Snos, Valeria, Rex, Scotty, and Chico; magnificent companions who went before me to the other side of the Bridge. Someday I will see you all again, and we will be united till time and times are through.
They keep company with the friends of my other brethren, friends whom you will see here. 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 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, 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 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 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 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.
Remember me not with tearful eyes —
but instead with abounding heart.
Should you choose to fill my bed, feel no guilt,
you have not betrayed me.
Love another as you always loved me —
and they too will love you as I always have.
Beth Norman Harris
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you will be very painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. I have only you!
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice and when it's speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'll never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I've been in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.
9. Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old.
10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch it" or "Let it happen in my absence". Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember, I love you.
-Author Unknown
AN OLD DOG'S CHRISTMAS WISH...
Printed in the Star-Herald on December 8, 2004 and written by Ron Young
'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the pound,
Not a creature was stirring, except one lonely old hound.
The shelter was decorated in bright holiday trim,
As poor old Jake waited on a visit from Him.
All of Jake's friends had found a new home,
Except for old Jake, all cold and alone.
But Jake knew it was Christmas, the holiday season,
He hoped his friends were placed for all the right reasons.
He had seen it before, the holiday gift,
A new dog at Christmas, it gave everyone a lift.
But a dog isn't a gift, it's a lifetime commitment,
Some people don't realize that, and it ends in resentment.
The dog that on Christmas, brought so much joy,
Ends up tossed aside, like an old worn-out toy.
The dog becomes a problem; they don't want it around,
And the poor Christmas pup ends up back in the pound.
So Jake wished the best for all of his friends,
Would he see them again, he guessed it just depends,
If all of the families were worthy of a dog's undying love,
The next time he saw his friends, it would be up above.
But if they came back, ending up in the pound,
He would see them again, unless Santa came around.
For Jake's Christmas wish was a home of his own,
With more happiness and love than Jake had ever known.
But the night grew colder, and Santa never came,
Who would want an old dog anyway, all crippled and lame.
So Jake closed his eyes and drifted to sleep,
It was a good nap; all peaceful and deep.
Jake didn't wake up that Christmas Eve night,
But he had found his new home. It would be all right.
For Jake's Christmas wish had finally come true,
He had found a forever home, where he was loved, He knew.
Jake had been a gift that Christmas Eve night,
He was given to someone with Power and Might.
A dog fit for a King, all noble and regal,
Jake was finally home, and one happy little beagle.
"Keeping Your Websites Alive"
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