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A Christmas Miracle, by Miriam McGuirk
Based on a true story from southwest Turkey where I lived for 17 years.
Abandoned to the depths of an unforgiving forest and treacherous mountains without food or shelter, I did my best to fend for myself. My supposed guardians left me to survive through rainstorms, thunder, and lightning conditions, no puppy should have to endure. A scrawny bit of a thing, without a mother to guide, train and show me love, days turned into long, lonely nights. My situation became dire. I smelled of decay and dirt and my coat turned a dull yellow.
In this harsh environment, I scavenged for food.
As dawn broke, one morning, I padded up a muddy track. A black, white, and tan dog with a boa-like tail blocked my path. No wag tail welcome, only a snarl.
I trembled.
A kind human voice called, “Selina, Selina. Let’s walk down the valley.” Selina skipped like a spring lamb and ran past me and her owners.
I observed sympathy in the woman’s eyes. Me, a tatty, ratty pup. My heart yearned to rush forward and beg for cuddles, but I held back.
The lady bent down. “Another poor mite who needs care and food.”
I reacted by pointing my ears high, and furiously wagged my tail. Flashing my teeth, I smiled a big smile.
“We cannot look after another dog. We have fostered five already and Selina is demanding,” the rangy looking man replied.
My heart slumped, my tail dropped, my ears flopped, and my smile vanished, but I continued to gaze longingly at the lady.
Tentatively, I walked down the path behind the group. Later, following them back to their house, I watched Selina stretch across a marble step that led up to a balcony and front door. I curled up on the ground below.
I tried to communicate with her. My attempts seemed futile. Her sharp barks of warning echoed in my ears. Time passed. Remaining motionless, canine instincts explored and tickled my body. I felt a presence near my tail and a charge of connection.
“Perhaps I could accept you if my mistress embraces you too. Remember, this is my patch, and you must adhere to my rules.” Selina asserted her authority.
Renewed hope surged through me. Sheepishly, I nodded. The sun dipped and a wave of cold air crept over me. A squeaky door opened. The woman appeared and quickly descended the steps and approached me.
Kneeling down she whispered comforting words. “I am taking you into my care. You will be safe here.”
Truly a miracle, my head shook, my tail wagged, ecstatically. Leaping with joy onto the ladies’ lap, she fell back laughing.
Each day brings walks, biscuits, water to follow, a squishy sofa bed to sleep in. Served fresh chicken or delicious livers for dinner, my harrowing start has faded, and replaced by love.
I do what puppies do, love my family unconditionally, play, eat, and sleep, even share moments of warmth with Selina.
Gino’s Seasonal message
Take good care of those you cherish and please support those in need.
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Merry Christmas, dear readers, with health, happiness, kindness, and love.
Warmest wishes,
Miriam
Image Credits: Miriam McGuirk .
A beautiful ‘tail’! Very uplifting and a reminder of the commitment owed to our pets throughout their lives.
Thank you Jane for taking the time to comment- Hugely appreciated
A delightful Christmas story – a reminder of kindness and love.
Thank you for reading this festive tale Ursula. Delighted you enjoyed and took on board the message.