Cora’s world was a tapestry woven from sounds and scents. She couldn’t see the vibrant colors of the world, the changing seasons, or the faces of those around her. Her world was one of rustling leaves, the rumble of passing cars, the comforting scent of damp earth after a rain. She had been blind since birth, a fact that had never bothered her, until now.
She remembered a time, not so long ago, when her world was filled with warmth and love. She remembered the gentle touch of human hands, the sound of laughter, the feeling of belonging. She remembered a place called home.
Then, everything changed. The familiar scents and sounds disappeared, replaced by the cold, sterile environment of the shelter. The gentle touches were replaced by hurried pats and the sound of many other dogs barking. She was confused and scared.
She’d overheard snippets of conversations between the shelter staff, hushed whispers that made her heart sink. “They said she was too much trouble,” one voice had said. “Because she’s blind,” another had replied.
The words echoed in Cora’s mind, a cold, hard truth that she couldn’t escape. Because she’s blind. Was that really why? Was that why she had been abandoned, left to face the world alone?
She’d often curl up in her small bed, her head resting on her paws, a deep sadness settling in her heart. She couldn’t see her reflection, but she could feel the weight of other people’s perceptions. She’d think, Is it true? Did they leave me because I’m blind? Am I not worthy of love because I can’t see?
The thought was a constant ache, a heavy weight on her small shoulders. She didn’t understand why her blindness would make her any less deserving of a loving home. She was gentle, affectionate, and eager to please. She longed for the warmth of human companionship, the feeling of belonging to a family.
She’d listen to the happy barks of other dogs as they left the shelter with new families, and a pang of loneliness would pierce her heart. She’d think, Will anyone ever choose me? Will anyone ever see past my blindness and recognize the loving heart that beats within me?
She’d tilt her head whenever she heard a human voice approaching, her ears perked, hoping for a kind word, a gentle touch. She desperately wanted to believe that somewhere, someone would see her, truly see her, and offer her the love and acceptance she so desperately craved. But the whispers echoed in her mind, a constant reminder of her perceived flaw: Because she’s blind. She sadly wondered if that was really the reason.
