To My Best Friend, My Partner in Crime, and My Better Half,
Okay, let's try this again: To My Dog,
First off, I wanted to say thank you. Because of you, I stayed sane through things I didn't think I could. You've comforted me through it all: family changes, good decisions, not-so-good decisions, heartbreak, and school stress, but you witnessed all the victories too. It doesn't matter what kind of day I'm having; coming home to you makes any rainy day seem sunny.
I also want to say I'm sorry. Often times we as companions fail to remember that you're just part of our world, but to you, we're your whole world. I get caught up in my life and neglect the fact that yours revolves around me. Your short life is the only fault you'll ever have, (other than as a puppy when you chewed everything in sight) and I promise I will make the most of each of your days.
What a beautiful world it would be if people had hearts like you. You wake up each morning, excited to greet the unknown and what your day may hold. Yesterday is in the past, and tomorrow will be a new day full of adventure. You've taught me that the key to happiness is living in the moment and loving others. I think it's true that God sent angels down in the form of dogs with notes saying, "Don't judge, just love." You ate the notes, but you keep delivering the message. If only the tricks and commands I've taught you could impact your life as much as the lessons you've shown me.
It's the little things like making me laugh until my stomach hurts that make me appreciate you more than you know. Like the way your head tilts every time I talk to you. Or the way you try to be protective, when in reality if anyone ever tried to break in, you'd attack them with kisses and happily welcome them. I love how the words walk, car ride, or dog park can turn your day, as well as mine, around in an instant. To most people, dog fur is an annoyance, but to me it's just an everyday accessory. And how could I forget the time you chewed up half of your favorite toys and left a thousand pieces for me to clean up. As much as I wanted to be mad, I just laughed and replaced every single one of them. There isn't a day that passes I don't think to myself how lucky I am to have you, and because of that I find myself smiling at you for no reason at all.
One day when you're old and gray, I'll wish you'd never go. I'll wish we could go back to the day I found you and that you'd be a puppy again. I'll wish you'd be by my side forever, but I know you have too much trouble to cause in dog heaven. When your time comes, please know that you changed my life and that you will always hold a special place in my heart. But for now while you’re still here, I'll cherish our time together and spoil you a little more than I should. Okay maybe a lot.
It's your wagging tail; it's your hilarious personality, and most importantly, it's your love. You found the person who needed you, and you filled an emptiness I didn't even know I had. So here's to you and the bond we've forever created. I think it's safe to say that even though I adopted you, it's you who rescued me.
Love You Always and Forever,
Your Best Friend, Your Partner in Crime, and Your Better Half
