A Foster Parent Speaks
Thank You for bringing this foster dog into my life. 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 an
other'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 forgiven 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.
~Author Unknown~