Dear outside world,

 

I watch from the inside

as everything passes me by, 

noises and people and my family, 

I’m here,

trapped behind bars,

afraid and hungry,

this must be the jail I hear about. 

 

I was taken out today, 

I tried to show I would be the best pet ever, 

my tail was wagging,

I kept a smile on my face, 

even though it hurt all over on the inside. 

But they could tell I was scared,

they put me back

again,

I’m doing my best 

but no matter what I do it seems

I’m still not good enough.

 

Please, 

All I need is a chance,

I don’t mind if it’s small,

or smelly,

or cold,

any home’s a good one.

 

It’s a perfect home if you’re there 

so be there for me,

please,

I need a family 

just as much as you do,

please, 

I need love,

I need to be able to see outside for longer than a walk a day,

I need to be able to feel the sun,

I need to feel the blades of grass tickle at my paws,

I need to show the world my smile,

I need people to care for,

I’ll do anything just please

recognize more than my scars,

I have personality,

I can offer greatness,

I understand if you need some time to think me over,

but don’t worry, most likely

I’ll be here tomorrow. 

 

Dear outside world,

a sunflower cannot bloom in the dark, 

so help me grow and prosper,

I’m just a good a pet as any,

my hair’s not as clean, 

and I need some extra loving, 

but I promise you won’t regret it. 

 

I’ll wait here patiently, 

for a person to call my home,

I heard shelters were just rest stops,

which means I’ve been here for too long,

but I’ll wait forever if it means a family, 

and I’ll be here, 

my tail slowly beating on the concrete floor,

for you. 

 

Love, 

the animal without a collar