All of us on Dogster are here for one reason, our love of dogs. I came across a poem and thought it would be a perfect posting for Christmas, it shows the importance of dogs in our lives.
Sure, our friends might think we’re a little nutty, we may be known as “the dog people” in our neighborhood, but that’s alright because we know a dog isn’t Just A Dog.
Just a Dog
From time to time, people tell me, “lighten up, it’s just a dog,” or, “that’s a lot of money for just a dog.” They don’t understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for “just a dog.”
Some of my proudest moments have come about with “just a dog.” Many hours have passed and my only company was “just a dog,” but I did not once feel slighted.
Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by “just a dog,” and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of “just a dog” gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it’s “just a dog,” then you will probably understand phases like “just a friend,” “just a sunrise,” or “just a promise.” “Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. “Just a dog” brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.
Because of “just a dog” I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like me, it’s not “just a dog” but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.
“Just a dog” brings out what’s good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.
I hope that someday they can understand that it’s not “just a dog” but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being “just a human.”
So the next time you hear the phrase “just a dog.” just smile, because they “just don’t understand.”
Authored by Richard A. Biby
There is a book called Dog Blessings, by June Cotner, that is a wonderful tribute to dogs and the impact they have in our lives. Told through a series of poems, prose, and prayers Dog Blessing honors our best friend. It will make you laugh and cry, it’s a book you’ll want to share will all the dog lovers in your life.
I want to take a minute to thank all the Dogsters who have become regular readers and contributors to the blog. Lisa and I appreciate all your support and are looking forward to sharing the New Year with you. Happy holidays from our family to yours.
