The Shy Dog

There was a shy dog who once ran fast through open fields. He barked at birds, chased the wind, and feared nothing. But life changed. Some people shouted at him. Some threw stones. Some pushed him away when all he wanted was care. Slowly, the happy dog became quiet. Now, he sits near old fences, watching people pass. He hides when footsteps come close, as if kindness is something he no longer understands. His bark is still inside him, but fear keeps it locked away. At night, he looks at the moon like an old friend who still remembers him. Maybe healing is not loud. Maybe it comes slowly, like small steps in soft sand. And maybe, one day, the shy dog will bark again and remember who he used to be.