Treat me kindly, my beloved friend,
for no heart in all the world is more grateful
for the kindness than the loving heart of me!
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 the sound of your footstep falls upon
my waiting ear.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a
domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to the 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 my clean food that I might 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 heroic efforts
to keep me going. I am not having any fun.
Please see that my trusting 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.
~ Beth Norman Harris
Frodo: Mat & Sherri Bickley’s beloved “Big Man”
Donated by Lisa Wilson