So Thankful!

As I sit here on Thanksgiving eve, I can't help but think of the things I am thankful for.   When asked what we are thankful for, we respond with similar answers of family, friends, health, love, life, faith.  And we are thankful for those things.  They mean so much to us. 

But this past year and the year prior have brought so many more blessings to my life!  Now when someone asks what I am thankful for, they better have a long time to sit and listen because there is so much!


Second Chance Dog Rescue was just a dream at one time.  Now that dream has become a life for me and my husband, a life with meaning and purpose, a life full of love.  


So what am I thankful for?  


...The dogs that share their capacity to love truly and completely without conditions....The dogs that show me what independence and strength really are... The dogs who once were needy become strong....the dogs who were afraid become brave....the dogs that were without love find the love of a family. Every single dog that has come in our door now lives in my heart forever.   I am SO thankful for the dogs.  


...The people that have done the right thing by bringing their dog to us, rather than dumping it somewhere....the shelters who have called to say "we need a hand"....the breeders who have given us the opportunity to rehome their retired dogs...those who watch out for stray dogs and call us to come to help.  It takes a world to change the course of a dog in need.  I'm thankful that people care.


...Everyone who has helped the dogs of Second Chance in any way!  So many people have given their time and money to give these dogs a second chance at a new life.  Donors who have shared the last of what they have to give...people who drop off a bag of dog food or a warm blanket...Those donations of things we need and dollars keep our doors open.  All the people that have adopted a dog and shared their lives and homes...I am thankful.


... And for those who share the dream!  People who have that vision of a world where dogs are not abused, neglected or homeless...those are the people who volunteer their time to help the dogs of Second Chance.  They take time away from their personal lives and bring their love and compassion to share with the dogs. They give themselves to these dogs and show them so much love. They work without payment of money and are paid in licked kisses, paws on your lap, and barks of joy!  We have many devoted, wonderful volunteers that have helped so much and I am thankful for each and every one of you.


...Our Board of Directors and members.  Without you we would lack the motivation behind the vision...the power to go on would cease...the goal would become vague.  You each keep the vision clear and foremost in our minds.  You share your experiences, your knowledge, your talents and your love at Second Chance.  I am so thankful to have you all contributing in making Second Chance Dog Rescue the very best it can be.  


....And my amazing husband Rick who has put his heart and soul into the rescue...who consoles me when a dog crosses Rainbow Bridge... rejoices with me when a dog gets to go home...who celebrates with me when a frightened dog finally trusts me to hold it... and for loving these dogs with the same passion I do!  I am thankful to be on this journey with my husband.


To all of you, on Thanksgiving Day, I will be speaking of the things you have done, your trials and your accomplishments, your love and your kindness.  Because that is what I am thankful for...


For all of you!


Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!


Denise Clark