This morning felt different when I woke up.
The sun peeked through the window just the way I liked it, warming the floor where I usually stretch my legs. I wagged my tail a little, excited. I thought, “Maybe today is special. Maybe today, someone will smile at me first thing, give me a hug, or even a treat.”
But the house was quiet.
I waited by the door of my little bed, ears perked, listening for footsteps. Usually, someone calls my name by now. Usually, I hear, “Good morning, buddy!” or “Come here, let me pet you.” But not today.
I sat up and slowly walked toward the kitchen. Maybe they were busy. Maybe they just forgot. My nails clicked on the floor as I moved, but no one turned around. I wagged my tail, just in case. Still nothing. Not even a glance.
I’ve been here all morning, but no one has greeted me.
I lay down by the door where the light hits just right, waiting. Sometimes I whine a little, not loud, just enough to say, “Hey, I’m here. I’m still here.” But no one notices. They walk by. They talk to each other. They stare at their phones or the TV. But not at me.
Do they know how long I’ve waited for their voices? Do they know how my heart lifts every time they smile at me, or how I dream about belly rubs and kind hands even in my sleep?
I don’t need anything big. Just a “hello.” A scratch behind the ears. A look that says “You matter.”
But today… nothing.
And it hurts more than I thought it would.
I wonder if I did something wrong. Was I not a good dog? Did I bark too much yesterday? Did I make a mess? Or maybe… they just don’t see me anymore.
I know I’m not a puppy. My fur is a little rough in some places. My eyes have gotten cloudier. But my love hasn’t faded. I still wait by the door every evening. I still wag my tail even when no one notices. I still believe — even now — that someone will remember me.
Because I remember them. Every laugh, every walk, every soft word.
But today, it’s quiet. And I feel invisible.
I’ve been here all morning, but no one has greeted me.
And so I lay my head down, trying to be patient. Trying not to feel the ache too much. Maybe later they’ll remember. Maybe tonight, someone will see the sadness in my eyes and sit beside me.
I hope so. Because love is all I’ve ever wanted. And even when the world feels cold, I’ll keep waiting for that one gentle touch that says: “You’re not forgotten. You’re still loved.”
