AN OPEN LETTER TO MY PET DOG

AN OPEN LETTER TO MY PET DOG:
Date: 28th July 2018.
Dear Lampe,
Words cannot express the love I have for you. But, however, this is a feeble attempt to put my feelings for you in print.
You came into my life six years ago as a 35 day old pup. I could put you in the palm of my hand. You were so tiny and fragile. I never thought you would survive!
From day one you bought sunshine into my life. Your hiding behind furniture and demanding biscuits in the middle of the night are remembrances I will cherish for life. How can I ever forget the way you chewed up all my furniture when you were teething?
Your affection is so infectious, that even the other members of the family, who were indifferent when I bought you home, are truly in love with you. You have become indispensable!
You have with your qualities of faithfulness and love kindled empathy in my soul. I have realized how guileless and innocent animals can be. They are a part of the bounty nature offers us.
Unfortunately, we humans are so predatory that we are indiscriminately felling trees and forests. This is causing great ecological damage and your brethren are being dislocated and killed. This makes me sad.
I see the joy in your countenance when you are left loose in a garden or open space. In urban areas there is preponderance of concrete and greenery has become rare. We are losing our lungs!
I have realized the importance of flora and fauna in our lives. Activities like chasing butterflies or simply lying vacantly under the shade of a tree have become otiose.
When you are not playing you relax and sleep. I have learnt the art of relaxing from you. Sleep deprivation is a result of stress and anxiety which is a human invention. It is a gift urbanism has bestowed upon us. We need to learn the art of relaxation from you. You truly live moment to moment. There is no past or future for you. You are a Taoist in the true sense!
Life is simple for you. Some food and lots of love is all you need. Money or social standing mean nothing to you. These are qualities we need to imbibe from you.
You have captured a very special corner of our hearts. Your presence has not only been a source of joy but has been a learning experience for us.
I hope you live a long, healthy and happy life. My good wishes are always with you.
I have always tried to keep you happy to the best of my abilities. If I have unwittingly caused you any pain or unhappiness, do forgive me. I never meant any harm!
Your friend and well wisher,
Shailesh.

