Bringing Joy
Each week she enters the building with smiles all around
She’s come to bring them happiness and hope to abound
Her large Newfoundland body sets many aback
They wonder what her breed is, and if she might attack
Her handler full of patience and love answers each question with care
She assures them of their safety and encourages them to pet Joy’s hair
Joy’s smiling face greets them fondly, and her loving nature puts them at ease
She wears a welcoming dog harness that says, “Bringing Joy” and pet me as you please
Soon their apprehensions all disappear
Joy’s loving way, replaces their doubts and fears
As they slowly let her into their hearts
With each visit a friendship begins to start
With everything and everyone there’s a building of trust
But to start a new chapter turning the next page is a must
With each knock on the door, the handler doesn’t know what to expect
It’s her care and love for God that drives her to the next
With her cheerful voice she says, “Would you like a visit from Joy?”
Even though she knows that most of them will call her a boy
Joy’s tremendous 130 pound frame gives them something to chat about
She has a child like goofy way that gives them much laughter without a doubt
Many of the same questions begin to unfold
Each and every week the all the same answers are told
Where did you come from? What’s her breed? What does she eat?
What does she like to do? Does she shed? Where does she sleep?
Is Joy hard to take care of? Does she ride in your car?
Did you train her yourself? Does she like to play and bark?
The handler answers each question as if it was the first
Even though inside, she feels like her mind just might burst
The are times of such happiness and some days that feel so bleak
Joy’s has a persistent way with a nudge of her nose that makes them want to speak
Soon the beloved seniors begin to share their struggles from day to day
They speak of their loved ones, former pets, and how much they miss the ones who have passed away.
The handler listens with care and says, “I’ll pray for you.”
Here’s a picture of Joy and we’ll see you soon
Week after week the admiration grows
I see a hope emerging with each time that this therapy dog shows
Some people say that dogs can’t speak
But Joy’s loving message rings loud and clear each and every week
“Keep on going, hoping, and smiling too!”
“I’m Joy your therapy dog and I love you!”
Copyright © Cheryl Jetton | Year Posted 2023
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