Category: Healing

Grace

ɡrās/
noun
1.simple elegance or refinement of movement.
“she moved through the water with effortless grace”
synonyms: attractiveness, charm, elegance, poise, gracefulness, finesse;
2.: a controlled, polite, and pleasant way of behaving
(in Christian belief) the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings..
Synonyms: kindness, kindliness, love, benignity; condescension.

Grace is her name and by above definition she has lived up to it. She that I refer to is my 8 year old friend, love, buddy, family member and pet Bichon Frise. I have learned so much from Grace in the past 2 weeks as what would appear a peaceful existence changed 360 degrees in a matter of minutes.

On one particular day June 04, 2015 we(myself, Grace and Diamond, my Chihuahua mix) we set out for our routine morning stroll. Nothing remarkable about this day other than the fact we set out earlier than usual due to the forecasters predicting early rain. Upon return from my dogs gleeful romp and play in their favorite grassy area in front of a child’s middle school I observe 2 large pit bulls off leash on the opposite side of the street still at a distance.

As the distance between is lessens I call out to a young man appeared to be accompanying the 2 pit bulls asking that secure them as they appear to take note and interest in my dogs. The young man responds “lady they are not my dogs”. The partnered pit bulls(one white and one black) run across the street fast approaching my dogs. I quickly grab my dogs leashes tight and attempt to pick them up. The white pit bull grabs hold of my chihuahua hind leg. I instantaneously punched the pit bull in its snout and secured my chihuahua under my jacket. At this point both pit bulls are biting at my jacket to cause harm to my chihuahua. Grace my Bichon Frise now barks and the 2 pit bulls turn their attention on to her. At this point I wish this were just a bad dream which I will awake and find not real. Not the case,

I let off a swift kick to the white pit bull and yell which causes the pit bull partners to retreat but only for a quick moment. This was short lived as the black pit bull returned and as I attempt to grab Grace up in my arms the black pit bull restarted the attack grabbing Grace in her back I had no choice but to let Grace go as I did not want to engage in a tug of war with me against the pit bull. The most disappointing and shocking thing of all at this moment is the fact that several bystanders are in arm reach and not one responds to my cry for assistance as I watch this vicious attack on my Grace. Grateful for a passer by that offered to assist in getting us away from this scene. Relieved to be in this woman Debbie’s car with Gracie in hand and observing the local police and fire department arrive. Relief short lived as now I realize in the commotion Diamond my chihuahua is no longer in place tucked under my jacket. She obviously dropped in the ruckus. Take off and get Gracie to veterinarian, I am instructed by police and fire department. However, this is not an option. How am I to leave my other dog behind.

Don’t worry they say, we will look for Diamond. Not an option she is terrified and there is no way she will respond or approach unknown and unfamiliar voices. I am now informed if I do not leave and take Gracie to veterinarian immediately I will be given a citation. Really!! Debbie the good Samaritan suggest we return to my home to get my wallet and hopefully see if Diamond returned home. I did not feel optimistic in finding Diamond at home as we are 2 miles away from home and very heavy traffic at the major thoroughfare.

I will never underestimate the intelligence of  my Diamond again, she not only made it to our building but there she was laying on the mat in front of apartment door.