Laughing with Lily

I've read about therapy dogs and even watched a show once called, "Miracles Pets." But I'd never experienced the healing impact an animal can have in your life until this week. As I giggled in the dark, waiting for sleep last night, I was so glad my parents have a new dog.

Thirty minutes earlier, I'd sat on the stairs and scooted up backwards, one step at a time. By the time I reached the top, my right hip muscle burned with fatigue. Drained from the monumental effort, I didn't know how to stand.

Lily, my mom's new puppy, darted around my tired body. Reaching the second floor of the house was an adventure for her. She sniffed the carpet around me and ran up the hall, urging me on. I tried to stand, but couldn't figure out which body part could handle my weight.

Befuddled by the predicament, I was thankful when mom turned the corner with a rolling chair. I pulled myself into the chair and laughed as she wheeled me down the hallway to her guest bedroom. It was funny - almost.

Mom and Lily said goodnight and headed back down the stairs. As I lay in bed with my foot high on pillows, I began to wonder when I'll be able to return to normal life. Since getting up one flight of stairs had wiped me out, I worried about how I'll manage once home. I've spent days and nights on my mom's sofa to avoid the stairs. But I've almost been gone a week. The ankle is healing, but other joint issues have been exacerbated in the process.

As I lay in the dark trying to turn my thoughts to prayers, I heard the soft pitter-patter of Lily's steps. She'd escaped from mom's bedroom, run across the living room, and bolted up the stairs. She scurried down the hall and with a flying leap, landed on my face, licking me as if she'd found her long, lost friend. I forgot my worries and laughed as Lily celebrated her escape.

Soon I heard mom's soft movement on the steps. With her own smile, she took Lily back to her room where she sleeps for the night.

And after a good nights rest, my legs worked a little better today. I've still a long road to recovery. But laughing with Lily and cuddling close to her soft fur has added a distinct sweetness to the journey.