Little black dog…

Tank is a little black dog that belongs to my son Jordan and his bride, Keturah.  For the past six days he’s been a guest in our “dog house.”  We have a 16 year dog that is near death and at the same time appears to be death defying.  We refer to her, Shelby, as the “never ending story.”  Our “pupsin” is a little beige colored pooch named JoJo that is actually in middle age.  He’s just about to turn 8 and is full of “spit and vinegar.”  You’ve never met an animal with more passion aimed toward a “ballee.”

Enter Tank.

Tank is a puppy.  He’s over 1 year and under 2.  He was saved by Keturah’s cousin and then adopted by Jordan and Keturah.  He’s had some serious issues.  He had been severely beaten as a baby.  He was neglected and abandoned.  He’s been deeply wounded and, as you can imagine, has had to learn how to trust again.  He especially has a hard time trusting men… 

Does this story sound familiar?  Sadly, it is.  AND, not just for animals.

His hips are still sensitive but it’s his heart that has taken the longest to heal.  This too is so often our same refrain.  

When Miss agreed to watch him this week it started off with him barking and keeping us up the first couple nights.  Bummer all around.  Of course, I wasn’t the one doing the work, just the one “barking” about the results.  Yes, I’ve got issues.

By his third day here, he had adjusted.  He fits in now like he’s been here for years.  I, for one, am amazed by his quick transition.  He loves to be pet on his head and his chest.  Just not any lower.  He too loves the ball. He let’s Jo get it as he really doesn’t want the fight.  He’s so peaceful and so loving.  AND, of course he likes to tease.  What pup doesn’t like to have a little fun?

When you look in his eyes, though, you can see his former wounds and you can see how Jordan and Keturah have put the salve of LOVE all over him.  What a joy to experience.

I wasn’t that excited about having Tank here.  I was alright with it, but not passionate about it.  I was just past neutral.  However, after 6 short days.  After just a few hours of time together…

He’s softened my heart.  

I don’t want to see him go.  My heart has been pierced by a little black dog.  Who knew?

Miss and I refer to him as our Grand dog.  Blessings do arrive.  They most often come in a package just like this little black dog.  

When you least expect it AND, at the same time, when you remain open to being pierced.  

Thanks, little black dog…