Independence Day,
by Crystal Collins, Starfish To the sea Animal Rescue

Today, I gain my independence.
I've had months of bittersweet "freedom"
Where food was scarce and frights were plenty.
When I could not sleep or find shelter from cold.
I've spent weeks behind this chain link door.
The days meet nights and a leash has been my closest friend,
And I've laid here, watching people just like you
Leave with dogs that are just like me.

Today, I stand apart from the others.
I am no longer one of the rest.
Another "mutt", another "stray" in a world of strangers,
Because I barked too much
Or soiled the carpet
Or cost too much
Or needed affection
Or never learned to obey.

Today I have been chosen.
Though you walked through the aisles and saw others like me,
It was my stare that you held with your own for so long.
My tail wags, my heart bounds, I am happy again,
though I have long been forgotten by someone I can never forget.
I'll forgive the hands that touched me with too much force.
And the voices that said my name with distaste.

Today is Independence Day
And I will hold my head and tail high as I walk through these doors.

Today a new home, a new world, a new life is mine
And I am free.