How Many Times can a Heart Break?

My heart breaks as I stand in front of an empty cage picturing the animal who had previously occupied it, one of many who waited for their happy ending that never came.

 

My heart breaks as I pet the dog that already has so many strikes against him; breed, size, color, age and is still so willing to give you a chance to be his friend.

 

My heart breaks as I sit on a kennel floor and reach out a hand towards an animal that only knows to cringe; waiting for the strike that must be coming.

 

My heart breaks as I drive away wishing I could take every last one home and yet knowing even if I did, the cages would simply fill again.

 

... and so before I return again, the pieces of my heart will shift a little - fall back into a new place - often held together by resolve and sheer stubbornness.

 

Because I've learned in rescue ... the answer to How Many Times can a Heart Break, is as many as it takes.

(Trisha Torres)