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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 would lick your hand between
the blows, your patience and understanding would
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 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 and I ask for
no greater glory than the privilege of sitting
at your feet beside the hearth.
Though if you had 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, though I would 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
and sight, do not turn me away from you.
Rather, hold me gently in your
arms while skilled hands grant me the merciful
boon of eternal rest and I will leave you, knowing
with my last breath my fate was ever safest in
your hands.
** Author Unknown
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