When I got My New Dog

I asked for strength that I might rear her perfectly;
I was given weakness that I might feed her more treats.
I asked for good health that I might rest easy;
I was given a "special needs" dog that I might know nurturing.
I asked for an obedient dog that I might feel proud;
I was given stubborness that I might feel humble.
I asked for compliance that I might feel masterful;
I was given a clown that I might laugh.
I asked for a companion that I might not feel lonely;
I was given a best friend that I would feel loved.
I got nothing I asked for,
But everything that I needed.

Rescue Me.

Rescue me not only with your hands but with your heart as well.  I will respond to you.

Rescue me not out of pity but out of love.  I will love you back.

Rescue me not with self-righteousness but with compassion.  I will learn what you teach.

Rescue me not because of my past but because of my future.  I will relax and enjoy.

Rescue me not simply to save me but to give me a new life.  I will appreciate your gift.

Rescue me not only with a firm hand but with tolerance and patience.  I will please you.

Rescue me not only because of who I am but who I'm to become.  I will grow and mature.

Rescue me not to revere yourself to others but because you want me.  I will never let you down.

Rescue me not with a hidden agenda but with a desire to teach me to trust.  I will be loyal and true.

Rescue me not to be chained or to fight but to be your companion.  I will stand by your side.

Rescue me not to replace one you've lost but to sooth your spirit.  I will cherish you.

Rescue me not to be your pet but to be your friend.  I will give you unconditional love.

My, my, what a lovely dog, does he bite?
I'm already petting him, I hope it's alright.
Well, no, it's not, you see he's at work
Oh, then excuse me for asking, you cranky old jerk.
Is that a blind dog, Mommy, and is that man blind?
Hush, hush, my darling, don't be unkind
Just slink past quietly, with him have no dealings
We wouldn't want to hurt his feelings.
We go to a cafe for something to eat
Just through the doorway and what do we meet?
Somebody shouting, "You can't bring that dog here
Some patrons have allergies and others have fear!"
But this is a guide dog, you can't turn us away
Have you never heard of the A.D.A?
No I have not, and I couldn't care less
Just leave here immediately and don't leave a mess!
We turn to the door and leave on the double
I can't afford to start any trouble
For an important appointment I need to attend
No time to build bridges or fences to mend.
To get there on time I needed a ride
But an unwilling cabbie I couldn't abide
So I aimed for a bus stop I thought was nearby
And my dog went straight to it...What a guy!
In the fullness of time along came a bus
By then a small crowd had gathered with us
I ask the driver just as we board
To call my stop, but my plea was ignored.
"Excuse me, I'm lost, need help, do you mind?"
You don't need to shout, I can hear, I'm just blind
Your help is appreciated but what's "here" and where's "there"?
Well, thanks anyway, I guess we all have crosses to bear.
Are you training that dog, or is he training you?
You keep talking to him, shouldn't he know what to do?
How does he know when the traffic light's red?
How much did he cost and what is he fed?
On and on and so it goes
Trouble and strife and toil and woes
But just a darn minute, it could be worse
What if there was nothing worth putting to verse?
At the end of the day it's not a bad life
I have a nice home and a wonderful wife
And on top of all that, last but not least
It's even made richer by this wonderful beast.
Bob Fallis with the assistance of Leader Dog Sonny September 1997

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