u/codecaffe

Back in 2018 I started doing a job. My salary wasn’t enough back in that time. So I had to move to downtown area. Living cost was low in that area. Our city corporation doesn’t allow too much stray dogs. So they kept pushing them to downtown area. I had some fear about dogs until one night. I was coming back to my lil apartment from my office. There’s a tea stall, three/four minutes of walking distance from my apartment. I used to sit there, had a cup of tea and piece of bread. That’s my dinner for almost every night. But I saw a puppy one night, trembling n crying, abandoned by her mama. I couldn’t ignore those teary eyes that night. I took him to that tea stall, we shared our dinner.

Same thing happened next night. He’s sitting at the same spot. Then it happened everyday for almost three months! Every night he escorted me to my apartment. I used to live in third floor, dogs or cats weren’t allowed. So he had to live here n there. Morning time? We used to meet again at that tea stall. And we shared our breakfast. I never thought that I’d make bonding with a puppy this way. I never gave him a name. But that brave soul started protecting me, whenever he saw a big dog barking at me. He’s playful, grateful. And he’s my friend.

Almost three months later I got my promotion. Had to move to main city, nearest to my office. But still, they don’t allow dog or cat. And I couldn’t able to take him with me. 5 days later I went back to that area, that downtown area. I was looking for that fast growing friend of mine. I didn’t see him anywhere. Nobody knew where he was. Even that shopkeeper of tea stall couldn’t able to say anything. I had to searched nearest areas too. He was just vanished. I know, he felt abandoned by me. But it affected me very badly. I was too much sad for a long time, probably still I am. I never went for a dog in my life again. I’M BROKEN! I took two baby turtles with me later. Had them for five years. Then few months ago my nephew n niece took them. At least you are able to carry your turtles right?

So I am writing this, not because I want to sell my sob. I believe this our safe space. And we can share things. I saw Vicky and Amanda. Saw some other friends too. That how much they love dogs, cats and animals. I am sure there are some dogs out there, born today. Someone’s probably celebrating their puppy’s birthday as well. So I am celebrating their birthday too. Happy birthday!! Keep zooming!

I was listening to a song called 'My Culture' and drew this tree!

Fully grown tree can be our shelter, safe zone! Every kind of relationship is just like that.

If you are feeling sad today, then fight back. Make a reason for smiling. You aren't alone. Let's sit beneath this tree and drink coffee!

Friends, i hope everyone is doing well. It’s been a year that we are growing together with love, respect and happiness. Our lil safe space has 500 (almost) members now. THANKS to cowfish and every one of you. And please, go easy on my not so nice drawing. I can't remember or write down everyone’s name. But i am grateful to every one of you, i have learned a lot from you. Yup, that's all.

Thank you!