It was Christmas after all

Hank's wife had only been gone a year but the pain was as fresh as if time had stood still. He was an old man now, alone and longed for the comfort that he knew no other person would ever be able to give to him again. What would his life become without her by his side? Hank's cupboards were close to bare now and, although he didn't want to go out, he knew he should at least pick up the basics. He drove slowly down the side streets for freeway driving had become too challenging. Suddenly, the car started chugging and sputtering until finally the engine quit altogether. One of the basic needs he forgot was fuel for the car! So he coasted over next to the curb, spotting a building within walking distance. Hopefully, they'd let him use their phone. He walked into an office area and rang the bell for service but no one came. He spotted another door going outside, failing to notice the sign posted „Employees Only“.

As Hank walked out, he was overwhelmed by yaps, barks and insane jumping from dogs all sizes and shapes. He then realized he had unintentionally gone to the dog shelter. Slowly he walked down the concrete aisle looking for an attendant. Should the old dog get excited? No one would want him. But, he sensed a need and couldn't resist offering a kind look and a gentle wag of the tail.

As Hank neared the old dog's cage, he laced his fingers through the chain link to steady his gait and the first feeling of comfort he'd remembered in over a year came from a wet nose and lick across his arthritic fingers.

Just then a voice of authority sounded, and Hank jumped. „I'm sorry Sir, you aren't supposed to be in this area!“ she said. Luckily Hank didn't know he had walked into the „final area“ where unclaimed dogs were scheduled to be put down. There went the nudge and lick thing again. Hank looked down to the most pleading eyes he'd ever seen.

Ignoring the attendants order to leave, Hank asked if he could see the dog closer? Her demeanor changed completely and her sternness melted away. She had forced herself to be this way so she could do the part of her job she despised. She brought the old dog out and instantly the two souls - once so lost - found reason to hope.

Hank's cupboards were now filled, a warm fire crackled and the old dog smiled inside as he remembered „only in your dreams.“ Closing his eyes he felt Hank's hand stroking his head whispering „sleep in heavenly peace“.

It was Christmas after all.

(Author unknown)