Bosan knew he was different. His face, marked by a birth defect that twisted his snout and set his eyes at slightly different angles, drew stares and whispers. He’d watch other dogs at the park, their faces perfectly symmetrical, their coats gleaming, and a deep sadness would settle in his heart.
He longed to join their playful chases, to feel the wind in his fur as he ran alongside them. But he’d seen the reactions. The quick glances that turned into averted gazes, the hushed comments, sometimes even the recoiling steps of those who came too close.
He remembered a few times when he had approached people, his tail wagging hopefully, only to be met with a look of discomfort, even disgust. The rejection stung, solidifying the idea that his appearance made him unlovable.
He started to avoid approaching people altogether. He’d sit on the sidelines, watching the other dogs play, his tail tucked low. He’d often catch his reflection in puddles, the distorted image confirming his worst fears. He’d touch his face with a hesitant paw, as if trying to understand what made him so different, so…unacceptable.
He’d curl up in his small bed at the shelter, the sounds of happy barks and playful yelps echoing around him, a constant reminder of what he lacked. He’d think, Why am I like this? Why can’t I be normal?
The thought was a heavy weight on his heart, a constant reminder of his perceived flaws. He longed for a gentle touch, a kind word, a loving gaze. He yearned for the feeling of belonging, of being accepted, of being loved unconditionally.
He noticed how people would naturally gravitate towards the other dogs, cooing over their soft fur and bright eyes. They’d offer treats and playful scratches, their faces beaming with affection. But when they looked at him, their smiles would falter, their expressions shifting to something that felt a lot like pity, or worse, aversion.
Bosan didn’t understand why his appearance mattered so much. He had a heart full of love to give, a playful spirit yearning to be unleashed. He just wanted to be seen, not for his face, but for the loving soul that resided within. He just wanted to be accepted, to be loved, to be seen as more than just his outward appearance. His story is a poignant reminder that true beauty lies within, and that everyone, regardless of their physical differences, deserves to be loved and accepted for who they are.
