I am Missi, a little dog with big hopes. Today is my 16-month birthday, a day I thought would be filled with joy, love, and maybe a special treat or two. But as the hours pass, I can’t help but notice something missing. No one has wished me a happy birthday.
The morning started like any other. I woke up, stretched my legs, and wagged my tail eagerly as I trotted to the living room. My humans were busy as usual—running around, sipping coffee, and preparing for their day. I sat patiently by their feet, waiting for someone to notice me. “Surely they’ll remember,” I thought, my heart fluttering with hope.
But they didn’t.
I tried to remind them. I barked softly and nudged my favorite toy toward them, hoping it would spark a memory. I even did my best “sit” and “stay,” thinking they’d notice how good I was being. Still, they just patted my head absentmindedly and went about their day.
By midday, the excitement I had felt in the morning began to fade. I curled up in my favorite spot by the window, watching the world outside. A group of children ran by, laughing and playing with a balloon. For a moment, I imagined they were coming to celebrate with me, but they passed by without a glance.
As the sun began to set, a lump formed in my throat. Was I not special enough to be celebrated? Did they forget how much I love them, how I’m always there to greet them with wagging tails and wet kisses, no matter what kind of day they’ve had?
But just when I thought my birthday would pass unnoticed, something wonderful happened. My smallest human, the one with the brightest giggle and the softest touch, came running toward me with a smile. She held a tiny piece of cake—just for me. “Happy birthday, Missi!” she said, her voice full of warmth.
My tail wagged furiously, my heart swelling with happiness. She lit a tiny candle, and as it flickered, I made a wish—not for toys or treats, but simply for more moments like this. Moments filled with love and kindness, where I felt truly seen.
I may not have had a grand party or a mountain of gifts, but that little gesture meant everything to me. It reminded me that even when the day feels lonely, love can find its way to you when you least expect it. And for me, that was the best birthday gift of all.
