Today is my birthday, and my name is Zimva, a lovely white dog with a heart full of hope and dreams. I sit patiently in the corner of the cozy shelter that has been my home for as long as I can remember. The staff here are kind, and they take good care of me, but deep down, I long for a family to call my own.
As I look out the window, I see the world bustling by. People hurry along the streets, some with their dogs trotting happily by their sides. I imagine what it would be like to walk with them, to feel the sunshine on my fur and the gentle tug of a leash held by someone who loves me.
Today, as the sun rises higher in the sky, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and sadness. It’s my birthday, a special day that I wish I could share with a family who would celebrate with me. I dream of hearing “Happy Birthday, Zimva!” and feeling the warmth of hugs and pats from people who care about me.
The shelter staff know it’s my birthday, and they try to make it special. They give me extra treats and spend a little more time playing with me. Their kindness warms my heart, and I wag my tail in gratitude. But even as I enjoy their attention, I can’t shake the feeling that something is missing.
I watch as families come and go, adopting other dogs and taking them to their forever homes. I wonder when it will be my turn, when someone will look at me and see the loyal friend I am, waiting to shower them with love and affection.
As the day goes on, I continue to wait for everyone’s wishes. I imagine a party with a big, delicious cake, balloons, and the joyful laughter of children as they play with me. I dream of a yard where I can run and chase after toys, and a cozy bed where I can curl up at night, feeling safe and loved.
Just as the afternoon sun begins to cast long shadows, the shelter door opens, and a family walks in. They have a gentle look in their eyes, and their smiles are warm and kind. They approach my kennel, and I sit up, my heart pounding with hope.
“Hello, Zimva,” the mother says softly. “We heard it’s your birthday today.”
My tail wags furiously, and I can hardly contain my excitement. They spend time with me, playing and talking gently. I feel an instant connection with them, and for the first time today, I feel like my wish might just come true.
After what feels like both an eternity and a fleeting moment, the family speaks to the shelter staff. They fill out some paperwork, and before I know it, I’m walking out the door with them, my new family. They shower me with love and birthday wishes, just as I had dreamed.
That night, I find myself in a warm, loving home. There’s a cake just for me, and they sing “Happy Birthday, Zimva!” My heart swells with joy, and I know that I am finally where I belong.
My birthday wish has come true, and as I fall asleep in my new bed, surrounded by my new family, I feel a deep sense of contentment. I am no longer waiting for everyone’s wishes, because I have received the greatest gift of all—a family who loves me.
