Dogs Don’t Care
by Kathleen Dunbar

Dogs as a whole
don’t care what they look like
(except perhaps for poodles).
Let yourself find that dignity
and freedom
that creatures know
—let the sense of you being you
in the moment
just as you are
become a little fuller.
Your body will thank you
(it already knows how
and will be glad you listened).
Your heart will
relax—finally!
The miracle is You—
beauteous, unique,
sometimes with fleas,
alive and here.
Don’t let the thoughts
that compare and criticize you
be the only show in town.
They never took into account
the mystery that is you.
Be as dog, or horse,
mouse
or walrus—
trust yourself
howl wildly, run, snort
play and growl
taste and smell
sing and dance
and most of all be here.
The body that you were given
is exquisite.
Your heart is waiting for you
to love yourself.
You are amazing.

© Kathleen Dunbar 2020