Dear Papa,

I may not speak your language, but I know your heart. I see it in your eyes when you look at me, in your hands when you pat my head and give me scritches and give me my weekly shower, in your voice when you pray for me before leaving home. I feel it in every walk, every meal, every car ride. I may not understand why you worry, but I do know this—you always take care of me.

You rescued me when I had no one. You gave me warmth, food, and love. Every day, you walk with me, even when you are tired. You take me on a car ride because you know how much I love it. You take me to see Popo (grandmother), and I know that makes you happy too.

Gor gor (big brother) is not at home. I have not seen him since last Nov when you told me mom went to heaven. You stay at home almost all the time. You told me you only have God and me. You told me you miss gor gor like crazy but you do not want to make him worry. As much as I love having you at home, I want you to be happy. If you need to go out, please do.

I trust you, Papa. You told me about taking me to the vet for a surgery to fix my teeth. If you say I need this vet visit, then I believe you. I know you’re scared, but don’t be. I am strong because you have made me strong. And no matter what happens, I have already had the best life a dog could ever ask for—because I have you.

So, let’s go for a ride, and I’ll be brave. Because I know, when I wake up, you’ll be there.

Love, Ben