The Present By Livinia R-W

One beautiful day I am sitting in my room doing nothing, wishing I could play outside like I used to but sadly I can't... I'll probably get lost and I don't want that to happen, do I? It could be worse.

Mum and Dad call my name from downstairs. I carefully walk downstairs into the living room. Mum says, “There’s a box for you.”  A box I wonder. I feel around and feel a cardboard textured box. In that second I hear a bark...

I nervously open the box. It's like there’s a kaleidoscope of butterflies fluttering in my stomach. I feel something as fluffy as a teddy bear but it’s also wearing a special harness. It must be a guide dog! I jump with happiness because I have never had a dog before, but more importantly I can go outside on my own with my guide dog. 

My guide dog begs me to come outside to play. I say, “No,” because I'm still a bit anxious to go out on my own. My guide dog starts whining so I finally say “Yes.” All at once we get up and step by step I move forward carefully. I mean I love the gift but does Mum know how it feels to be blind? It’s not pleasant or easy. It feels dark, scary and lonely.

Gradually over time I become confident enough with my guide dog. Now it’s excellent and so much fun. Imagine my happiness now. I can go to the park with my guide dog and I can go on public transport. I am so thankful for this gift. I can finally do things I couldn’t before. 

My guide dog has given me independence and a new best friend!