
Opal was a rescue from a shelter.
People say, “Wow, she’s lucky you found her.” She’s a pitbull mix and there are many where she came from. Her breed is supposedly unpredictable. Mean. Violent. She’s lucky to have found a home!
But really, we are the lucky ones.
She makes her rounds all night, checking on each daughter and then on us.
She rarely barks, saving her growls for trespassers outside our door. She’s so protective!
Petting her releases endorphins and dopamine, chemicals that keep anxiety at bay.
She looks at us with those beautiful eyes and persuades us to go for a walk, even if it’s cold outside.
Her mere presence cheers us up after a rough day at work or school.
She reminds us to revel in the present moment, to breathe in the fresh air, and to spot rabbits in the bushes.
What makes her happy? Food. A warm bed. Loved ones nearby. She teaches us that it doesn’t take much to be blissful.