Foster Parent's Prayer

[Freedom]

Found this on a rescue site.

Lord,

Thank You for bringing this foster dog into my life. Had I not
made the decision to participate in rescue, I would never have
had the chance to meet this wonderful being.

Yes, it takes time to rescue and foster.... but who gave me
Time in the first place? And why or what was the reason I was
given Time? To fill my own needs? Or was there another
reason ever so small and seemingly insignificant, like rescuing
this one dog, that could make a difference in another's life?
Perhaps to add joy, hope, help and companionship to
another who is in need?

With great sadness, I sat down on a footstool in my kitchen
this morning and watched as this foster dog bounced back into
the house and skidded across the floor to sit ever so perfectly
in front of me. He was the picture of health, finally. He was all
smiles for me.... and I smiled back at his happy face. Deep in
his eyes, the storm clouds of illness and generalized poor
health had blown away, and the clear light of his perfection
radiated out from his beautiful soul. He holds no ill will
toward man. He forgives us all.

I thought to myself as I impressed this one last long look of him
into my heart, what a very fine creature You have created.
Tears slowly pooled and spilled over my cheekbones as the
deeper realization of how wonderful this dog is sank into my
internal file cabinet of Needful Things to Remember.
Lord, he's a dog - but he's a better human being than I am.

He has forgiven quickly. Would I do the same? He
passionately enjoys the simple things in life. And I have often
overlooked them. He accepts change and gets on with his
life. I fuss and worry about change. He lives today and loves
today. And I often dwell in the past or worry about the future.
He loves no matter what. I am not that free.

This very lovely dog has gone to his new home today and
already I miss him. Thank You for bringing this dog into my
life. And thank You for the beautiful and tender lesson on how
to be a better human.

Our thanks to Grace Saalsaa
of Mid-American Border Collie Rescue for sharing her lovely poem with us.

[pomtzu]

Sandie - that was very touching. I have such admiration for those who foster and rescue. However, I could never foster, as I could never let one go once it was in my care. I don't know how people do it over and over again - they are much stronger than I am!! Just call me marshmallow!