I never bought a dog. I have tried many times; my dear old friends have passed on and left empty pallets and empty dishes behind. I make plans for specific breed. I roam pet stores and browse books and shows even tried to seek genetic similars to aged great loves buried in my back yard. I never have time because Easter rolls around.
In April or September I am presented with a parade. The most wonderful and sad lot of souls. Every Church Lady and Son's bestfriend I know has a dog...some 'gifted' puppy they can no longer keep who is now not so wonderful in their home; who has been without proper care or training in puppyhood, who chews up their shoes, their furniture, who needs shots and more food with great abandon. This is the dog who has lived in my house from the day I was 12 to today. The dog who was the abandoned Christmas or Easter dog that needs me more than the dog I imagine I want; who becomes the companion unimagined. I accept these responsibilities with resign at first. I rue the purchasers' of these pets with disdain and I forcefully ponder the "perfect" pet I forgo taking on this disguarded item labeled with some horrid name to cruel to change.
I have a few great loves in my life, My husband, my children and all these Easter and Christmas Pets. I wish I could attach pictures of them all. One helped me decide my husband. One helped me choose to have more children. Those between helped my children; one saved all their lives in a house fire and the one pictured, reminds me that now my children have grown I am still a great Mother.
Adopt a dog for Easter.
Love,
Mom
Madison, TN
