By Tanya M. Ursual

From The Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) L.A.W.S., P.O. Box 156, Smiths Falls, ON, K7A 4T1:

April 15th marks the start of National Volunteer Week. It is an opportune time to recognize the many volunteers that assist our shelter. Whether you come directly to LAWS or help from a distance, to each shelter animal you are making a profound difference. This poem was written by Dee Clair, entitled “Tender Hearts: A Tribute to Volunteers”. What better way to pay tribute to our volunteers then directly through the heart and voice of a shelter animal. Thank you to our many volunteers, to whom this poem directly applies. :

I greet each day inside my cage, And wait for God to write my page.

I wonder if you’ll come today, And let me feel the light of day?

My whole life has been dark with pain. And those who caused it -- what did they gain?

They stole my trust, my livelihood, And all because they simply could.

I yearn to run through scented fields, Without a cage and lock to yield.

To chase a squirrel that can’t be caught; To earn a love that can’t be bought.

But the darkest days have a light, In the quiet mornings that follow night.

You come to visit every day, Without a motive, without pay.

You carried me when I was weak, Brought trust I was too pained to seek.

You healed my wounds that took their toll-- You rescued my slowly dying soul.

And now I listen for your voice, Knowing that you’re here by choice.

You didn’t know me at the start, And yet I’m planted in your heart.

I’m learning to accept your praise, And not avert my fearful gaze.

Forgive me if I cower still; My life has been against my will.

I feel that you are growing tired, Within this fight that you’ve been mired.

If you can keep your doubts at bay, It would mean the world if you could stay.

I can’t predict how this will end, But I know this of you, my friend --

You selflessly all played your part; You saved me with your tender heart!