|
St. Rocco
THEY ARE OUR
FRIENDS...PARTNERS...
PROTECTORS...EVER-LOYAL...ALL-FORGIVING...
TO THEIR HEARTS' LAST BEAT...
THE LEAST WE OWE THEM IS TO LIVE A LIFE
THAT IS WORTHY OF THEIR DEVOTION
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
blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things
you would have me do.
Speak to me often, because 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. 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.
|
