By Shirley Cambray

Mom asked what I’d like for Christmas that year,
A toy or game, and perhaps something to wear.
She said, “Make your list short, don’t be greedy,
And remember to add a gift for the needy”.

I thought of all the things I would like –
A remote-control car or a big shiny bike.
Maybe some ice skates, pads and a stick.
No, better still, a soccer ball I could kick.

I have no sisters or brothers for play,
And when it rains I’m alone for the day.
So, I don’t need games for two or more,
I need a friend – someone to care for.

What I really wanted was a big, shaggy dog.
I’d brush him, walk him and give him a hug.
Feed him kibble and fresh water each day.
And teach him manners like “sit” and “stay”.

But, Mom said this is not the best time of year
To bring home a puppy and give it good care.
“No Mom, not a puppy – a full-grown dog.”
So we went to the shelter and I was really agog.

So many to choose from, all needing a home.
Some scared, some frisky, some looking forlorn.
How could I choose, which one could I love,
The answer seemed to be ‘all of the above’.

And then I saw him with his big eyes so black.
“That’s the one Mom, please can we take him back?
They say he’s house-trained, won’t make a puddle.
Please Mom, he’s lonely and just needs a cuddle”.

“I’ll keep my promise to give him good care,
And when we go out we’ll make quite a pair.
A freckle-faced boy, running at top speed,
And a lop-eared dog at the end of the lead”.

Many years have passed and I still have him,
His whiskers now grey and eyes now dim,
We’ve been pals through all kinds of weather,
It’s Christmas again and we’re still together’

I sure made the right decision those years ago,
Oh, did I tell you, my dog’s name is Joe.