12/28/2024
'Twas the Night of A Rescue
‘Twas a night like all others, when through the whole mill
All the poor souls were howling, so hungry and ill.
The food bowls were empty, all covered with grime,
Such despair, fear and pain … they’d committed no crime.
The mill dogs were lying on wire without beds
While visions of freedom danced in their heads.
And all of the breeds, the young, sick and old
Snuggled together to keep warm in the cold.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
They sprang up in fear to see what was the matter.
Away to the cage bars they flew with a howl;
It must be a person – that creature most foul.
Through the dark of the night and the cold and the snow,
There was a rescue afoot, but the dogs didn't know.
When, what to their wondering eyes should appear,
But two rescue vans and a mission so clear.
And one special lady, so lively and quick,
They knew right away ‘twas Theresa, not St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles her rescuers they came,
And she whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:
"Now, Harley! Now Teddy! Now Rudi and Dan!
On Amber! On Brian! Get out of the van!
To the top of the kennel! To the top of the wall!
Let’s rescue these souls for that is our call!”
She was dressed all in sweats from her head to her foot;
Her clothes soon were covered with dirt, urine and p**p.
But what did it matter when saving these souls,
Their freedom more precious than silver or gold?
The sick and the old, the moms and the dads,
The puppies, the discards, those hurting so bad.
With hands very gentle, they cut off the chains,
Gave each dog a hug and blessed each with a name.
So many dogs loaded – unwanted no more.
If only they knew how much love was in store!
Theresa spoke gently, but focused on work,
Prepped each for safe travel, then turned with a jerk.
As tears filled her eyes, she looked at those left
And under her breath whispered, “we’ll be back for you next.”
She sprang to the van, to her team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew, like the down of a thistle.
Away from the horror and misery and pain,
Away to a new life, finally free from the cage.
We heard her exclaim as the mill went from sight,
"HAPPY FREEDOM to all, and to all a good night!”
