Forever Young, Even When I Was Hurt

People say dogs grow older. I never really did.

Yes, the years passed. My face changed a little. My naps got longer. But my attitude? My personality? My courage? Exactly the same.

I still barked at the dog and still picked fights that I absolutely believed could win. I was bigger, faster, and tougher than I looked. Well thats my perception…

And then there was Penelope.

She lived two houses down. I had decided — long ago — that she was my enemy and barked at her every chance I got. She snarled back. We understood each other perfectly.

One day, I was in the front yard on my pee break and I saw her…. I barked with everything I had — my usual warning, my declaration of strength.

But this time, something went wrong. I ran towards her.

And suddenly, everything changed. Penelope grabbed me by the neck.

I don’t remember fear as much as I remember confusion. And then — relief.

Because Dad was there. And he ran to me and didn’t hesitate. And Penelope let go.

I was hurt badly, and needed stitches. Twenty-one of them!! Dad and Grandma rushed to the vet, panicking- while you rushed back from work.

I still remember you holding me when you came to pick me up…I could feel your pain more than my own. Seeing me like that broke something in you. The house went quiet. The days slowed down. You watched me closely. I took time to heal.

Days passed. My body rested. Love surrounded me. I felt protected, carried, guarded — like I always had been, but even more so now.

And then, one day, I stood up and looked around.

It was still me…still Bella….still brave…still stubborn…still convinced that I could take on the world.

I just healed and carried on, exactly what was meant to. No change!