Just A Dog
 
 From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog,"
 Or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."
 
 They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the
 costs involved for "just a dog."
 
 Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."
 
 Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog,"
 But I did not once feel slighted.
 
 Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog," And in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.
 
 If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably
 understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a
 promise."
 
 "Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship,
 trust, and pure unbridled joy.
 
 "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a
 better person.
 
 Because of "just a dog", I will rise early, take long walks and look
 longingly to the future.
 
 So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment
 of all the hopes and dreams of the future,
 The fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.
 
 "Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts
 away from myself and the worries of the day.
 
 I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog",
 But the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being
 "just a man or woman."
 
 So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog"
 Just smile...
 Because they "just don't understand."