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Archived Message

ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
by unknown

A store owner was tacking a sign above his door that read "Puppies For Sale." Signs like that have a way of attracting small children, and sure enough, a little boy appeared under the store owner's sign. "How much are you going to sell the puppies for?" he asked. The store owner replied, "Anywhere from $30 to $50." The little boy reached in his pocket and pulled out some change. "I have $2.37," he said. "Can I please look at them?" The store owner smiled and whistled and out of the kennel came Lady, who ran down the aisle of his store followed by five teeny, tiny balls of fur.

One puppy was lagging considerably behind. Immediately the little boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy and said, "What's wrong with that little dog?" The store owner explained that the veterinarian had examined the little puppy and had discovered it didn't have a hip socket. It would always limp. It would always be lame. The little boy became excited. "That is the puppy that I want to buy."

The store owner said, "No, you don't want to buy that little dog. If you really want him, I'll just give him to you." The little boy got quite upset. He looked straight into the store owner' s eyes, pointing his finger, and said, "I don't want you to give him to me. That little dog is worth every bit as much as all the other dogs and I'll pay full price. In fact, I'll give you $2.37 now, and 50 cents a month until I have him paid for." The store owner countered, "You really don't want to buy this little dog. He is never going to be able to run and jump and play with you like the other puppies."

To his surprise, the little boy reached down and rolled up his pant leg to reveal a badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked up at the store owner and softly replied, "Well, I don't run so well myself, and the little puppy will need someone who understands!"

We ALL need someone who Understands!!

- Unknown

DISCUSSION:

Jay, I know that you don't generally post things by "unknown" but I think this was a good choice. We all need reminded of the value of "being" where superficials are secondary.
-Beverly

That was sooo sweet and true!! It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for posting it!

We all need someone who understands!!!
-Stephanie

Jay, this is a great piece that puts things in proper prospective. All life is valuable and priceless. None of us, nor our dogs are perfect. Perfection exists only as an idea! Thanks for shaaring this. May I please have your permission to submit this to our Maltese Club newsletter? Thank you. Beverly Passe
-Beverly B. Passe - MyiMaltese

Beverly, This was sent to me anonymously. I have no problem whatsoever on a reprint.
-Jay

thank you for posting this message. i thought i was very kind and wise of the little boy who bought the pup. i think this story makes me open my mind and think about certain issues without any bias. thanks!
-Karen