Today is my 18th birthday. Could you please send your wishes to a blind dog like me? As I lay here, listening to the gentle hum of the house around me, I feel the warmth of the sunlight on my fur, though I can’t see its golden glow. I’ve been through so much in my life, and today is a reminder of the love and care I’ve received throughout the years.
I was just a pup when I first came into this world. I had eyes that could see everything, but over time, that gift was taken from me. I don’t remember exactly when it happened, but I know that one day, my world became dark. No longer could I see the faces of the people I loved, or the colorful world around me. But you know what? I learned to navigate my way through life in other ways.
I’ve always been able to sense the love that surrounds me. The soft touch of a hand petting me, the soothing voice calling my name, and the warmth of the bed where I rest every night. Even though I can’t see, I’ve never felt alone. My family has been there for me every step of the way, showing me that even in the dark, love is a light that guides me.
Today, on my 18th birthday, I think back to the years I’ve spent with them. I remember the first time I heard their voice, so gentle and loving. The sound of their footsteps became my guiding rhythm. I could tell when they were near, just by the way their steps sounded or the way the air felt when they walked into the room. I remember the first time they called me their “special boy,” and my tail wagged because I could feel the pride and affection in their voice.
They’ve taken such good care of me. I’ve had some challenges along the way. There were moments when I stumbled and fell, and I couldn’t see where I was going. But every time, my family was there to catch me, to guide me back on my feet. The love they’ve given me has been my sight, and it’s been enough.
Now, here I am, 18 years old. My joints ache a little, and my fur is a bit grayer than it used to be, but my heart is full. I might not be able to see the cake they’ve made for me, or the balloons they’ve hung up to celebrate, but I can feel the joy in the air. It’s all around me. The happiness, the warmth, the love—it’s enough to make me wag my tail with gratitude.
I don’t need to see to know that today is special. I don’t need to see to know that I am loved. And even though I may not be able to experience the world the way I once did, I still find beauty in the small things: the gentle touch of my owner’s hand, the familiar smell of their scent, and the sound of their voice telling me they love me.
So, as I sit here on my 18th birthday, I want to send out a message to everyone who has ever shown kindness to a dog like me. Thank you. Thank you for your love, your patience, and your understanding. Your love is the light that guides us, even when we can’t see it. Today, I celebrate not just another year, but the endless love that surrounds me every day.
And to my family, my dear humans—thank you for making this day, and every day, a reason to smile. You’ve given me the most precious gift of all: love. I may be blind, but I see more clearly than ever how lucky I am to be your dog. Thank you for giving me 18 wonderful years. Here’s to many more moments of love and happiness, even if I can’t see them.
