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A Dog's Plea
A poem typed and posted by ShadowWalker DeLaForge
Author: Unknown

Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in the world is more
grateful for kindness than the loving heart of mine.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I might lick your
hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly
teach me the things you would have me learn.

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 on my waiting ears.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet for I am a domesticated
animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater
glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for 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, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health,
hearing and sight, do not make a heroic effort to keep me going, I am
not having any fun. Please see that my trusty life is taken gently.
I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw, that my
fate was always safest in your hands.

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[former] poster's note: This next part isn't part of this but it
was with it, so I've included it with it too. Its a fitting end for
this beautiful poem.

I explained to St. Peter I would rather stay here, outside the pearly
gates. I wont be a nuisance, I won't even bark. I'll be very patient
and wait. I'll be here, chewing on a celestial bone, no matter how
long you may be. I'd miss you so much, if I went inside, it wouldn't
be heaven for me.

The end