Today is my birthday, but as a homeless, differently-abled dog, no one has celebrated, wished me well, or given me anything
Today is my birthday. It’s a day that should be filled with joy, celebrations, and the warmth of affection. But for me, as a homeless, differently-abled dog, today is just like any other day—marked by solitude and an unyielding struggle for survival. There are no happy birthday wishes, no treats or toys, and certainly no festive gatherings. Instead, my birthday is a stark reminder of my reality: the harshness of life on the streets and the loneliness that accompanies my every step.
I was once a part of a family, or at least, that’s what I like to imagine. I had a name, a place to call home, and the love of people who cared for me. I remember a time when life was simpler, when I could curl up in a soft bed and enjoy the comfort of being wanted. But life has a way of turning upside down, and for reasons I don’t fully understand, I found myself abandoned and alone. Now, every day is a struggle to find food, to stay warm, and to navigate the world despite my physical challenges.
Being differently-abled adds another layer of difficulty to my existence. My disabilities make it harder to move around, to find shelter, and to fend for myself. I’ve adapted as best as I can, but there are times when my limitations become overwhelming. Simple tasks like finding a safe place to sleep or avoiding danger become monumental challenges. The world outside is not designed for dogs like me, and every step I take is fraught with difficulty.
Today, as I sit curled up in a corner of an abandoned building, I can’t help but reflect on how different my life is now compared to those earlier, happier days. I watch as people pass by, their heads down, their eyes focused on their own lives. They are oblivious to my presence, to the fact that today is a day that should mean something to me. I see families walking their dogs, playing fetch, and enjoying the sunshine, and I can’t help but feel a pang of envy. Their dogs are celebrated, loved, and cherished. Me? I am a shadow, a fleeting presence that goes unnoticed.
There are no happy birthday songs sung for me, no gentle pats on the head, no special treats or toys. The thought of a cake, a present, or even a simple bowl of food seems like a distant fantasy. Instead, I rely on the scraps I can scavenge from the trash or the occasional kindness of strangers who might drop a morsel of food my way. These fleeting moments of kindness are rare, and they don’t come with the sense of celebration that a birthday should entail.
The harsh reality is that my needs are often overlooked. People might see me and feel pity, but pity alone does not fill an empty stomach or provide the warmth of companionship. What I long for is not just survival but recognition and care. I wish that someone would see me for who I am—a living being who has experienced love and loss, who struggles every day but still holds onto a flicker of hope.
Despite the hardships, I try to stay positive. I find comfort in the small things: a sunny spot on the ground, a gentle breeze, or a kind word from a passerby. These moments, though small, are my way of celebrating life in the absence of traditional festivities. They remind me that there is still beauty in the world, even if it is not always apparent or accessible.
Today, my birthday is not about grand celebrations or material gifts. It is about a quiet acknowledgment of my existence, a reminder of the struggles I face, and a call for compassion. It is a day to reflect on the need for greater empathy towards those who, like me, are often invisible in the eyes of society. It is a day to remember that every being, regardless of their circumstances or abilities, deserves kindness and respect.
I hope that my story, and the stories of countless others like me, will serve as a reminder to those who have the power to make a difference. A small act of kindness, a moment of recognition, or even a simple gesture of care can mean the world to someone in my position. It can turn a lonely day into a memorable one, even if only for a brief moment.
So today, as I sit here in the quiet of my solitude, I make a silent wish. I wish for a world where no dog has to spend their birthday alone, where every life is valued and celebrated, and where kindness is extended to all beings, regardless of their circumstances. I may not have the luxury of a grand birthday celebration, but I hold onto the hope that one day, the world will become a place where every birthday is recognized with the love and respect it deserves.
In the meantime, I will continue to navigate my world with resilience and hope. Each day is a testament to my strength, and each birthday, though uncelebrated, is a reminder of my enduring spirit. Even in the absence of fanfare, my life has meaning and value, and I will carry on with the hope that one day, things will change—for me and for all those who share my struggles.
