Missy Jane, our Sable and White Japanese Chin, was almost seven when she
came to us June of 2002. She had severe trauma to the
right side of her face (jaw broken, damage done to her eye,
causing her to be blind in that eye). Later we found out
she had an enlarged heart, which we are controlling with
medications. I had no clue what a Japanese Chin was,
really; but as time goes on and being on the Lucky Chin Adoption
forum have found out more and more traits that Missy possesses.
But this is not what I want to tell about, the puppy mill nor
what these poor little rescues (of any breed) have had to
endure. What I do want to tell about is what Missy has
taught me.
She wakes up every day with a smile
on her face (yes, she smiles) and a waggy tail. When she
goes out into our large fenced in back yard, it is like the
first time. She runs through the yard, digging in her
front paws, with her ears and tail flying in the wind.
Each time, it tugs at my heart.
She absolutely loves every toy that
we have. Our two pug boys (who have never known the
horrors that Missy has been through) look at her like she is
nuts to use so much effort in playing. When she doesn't
have a toy available, she has played with her paws. I look
at her and imagine in her cramped little crate at the mill in
Mo., playing with her little paws.
Her excitement when we baby talk to
her, her general love of life is a sight to behold. She
has taught me to forget the past, live for today. Life is
to be enjoyed and not taken for granted. God love Missy
Jane Barksdale, my hero!