After my wife left this world, the house became too quiet.
I am 65 years old and my whole life was connected with the family. I thought it would always be like that. But when Anna left, everything changed. The nights became especially difficult. Our house, once full of joy, now seemed empty.
I tried to keep myself busy, walked in the park, read books, but something was missing. One day I decided it was time to find a new companion. I was not ready for a new relationship, but a dog could help.
I went to the shelter and imagined getting a puppy. But I saw something different.
In the corner of the shelter sat an old dog. He did not jump up, did not bark, he just looked. His gaze was deep and calm. It was a dog that had waited for many years, and immediately I felt that it was my dog.
“I’ll take him,” I said.
The shelter staff were surprised, as the dog had lived there all his life – 10 years, since his birth. I knew that this dog could not spend another night alone.
When I brought Lessi home, she was cautious. She was not happy, did not wag her tail. She simply examined the house, then stopped and looked at me. In her eyes I saw the question: “Is this really my home?”
With each passing day she became more and more open. She followed me around the house and was always near me. Little by little she began to feel at home.
The first walk in the park was special. At first she walked slowly, as if she did not believe that she was now free. But then she stopped, breathed in the fresh air and started wagging her tail. It was a moment of happiness.
Months passed and Lessi became a full part of my life. She was no longer the shy, reserved dog I had taken from the shelter. Every day she greeted me with joy and became my faithful companion.
I thought I had saved her, but in reality she saved me. Before Lessi came into my life, I could not find joy. But this dog brought new meaning and purpose to my life.
It is never too late to find love and happiness. Age or past do not matter, only the choice of the heart counts.
If you are thinking about adopting a dog, do not limit yourself to puppies. Somewhere, an older friend may be waiting for you. And maybe you will save him, but he will save you too.
