Zephyr

Ever since I was little, I had been fearful of dogs. I could never go near one without running away from it. If I were to see a dog approaching, I would take pains to avoid it, even if it's taking a big detour. Till now, I have never understood why such fears existed in me. Perhaps they seem ferocious whenever they start barking and baring their fangs?

Well, all that changed one day when two dear friends of mine decided to get a dog of their own. My reaction to their intention was, 'If so, I am never gonna go to your place anymore.' Go to their place I did, after much convincing that their little puppy was very timid and shy and that she would run away from me first before I could run away from her. Reluctantly, I agreed to pay them a visit. Not going to their place because of a dog was after all a lame and stupid reason.

Upon setting her first sight on me, the puppy ran away quickly and hid herself in a corner. I didn't even have time to run! My first impression of her was, she was just another dog. Relieved, I let my guards down. Much later, I was sitting on the floor, feeling relaxed and chatting with my friends. Zephyr then started walking slowly towards us. I got a little nervous at once. She came around me to check me out (sniffing me out). I told myself to relax and give her and myself a chance. Taking a deep breath, I took a good look at her. She was indeed shy and timid but very cute. Then she surprised me by sitting down next to me. My friends looked worriedly at me, thinking I might jump and run. On the contrary, I found that gesture of hers sweet and soothing and I couldn't help myself but stroke her. With their big wide eyes, my friends screamed in joy, 'You're stroking a dog!!!' From then on, I fell in love with Zephyr.

One particular incident which I remember vividly. I stayed over at theirs one night. The next morning I felt something wet on my feet and I sat bolt upright and saw Zephyr's cute little face looking up at me and wagging her tail. She was waking me up by licking my feet! Even though I was in my blurry and sleepy state, I had to smile at her.

Zephyr is to me now not just another dog but a being. A being who has emotions, temperaments, likes, dislikes and etc. All thanks to her, I have learned to appreciate other dogs too.

I am often asked if I would want to get a dog for myself. However, I am not confident if I am responsible enough. Dogs are such trusting and loving beings that they give their hearts completely to their owners. I often feel I would let them down if I am unable to give my all to them. It is not just about bringing them out for walks, feeding them and cleaning after them. They need love and attention at the same time too. In doubt that I am able to live up to such responsibilities, I decided against the idea of getting a dog, which results in a guilt in me that I am pushing such responsibilities to others.