A New Year dawns, as fireworks bloom,
May mercy fill each shelter room,
Frightened eyes peer through the bars,
Dreaming of homes, and open stars.
The matted terrier who lost his way,
The tabby cat who used to play,
A senior dog with a graying face,
All waiting for some loving grace.
No needle's sting, no final sleep,
No silent tears that workers weep.
Instead, those shelter doors swing wide;
"THEY ALL WENT HOME," our nation's pride.
See the puppy, scared and small,
Who only needs one loving call;
Tuxedo cat with emerald eyes,
Who purrs away her lonely cries.
They ask for nothing but a chance,
Gentle words, a second glance,
A place to sleep, healing hands,
Someone who always understands.
From coast to coast, let shelters be,
Safe spaces where we all can see,
So every cage door opens to,
Families making dreams come true.
Volunteers come in like light,
Donations help all things unite,
Spay and neuter are just the norms,
Compassion shows our truest forms.
In all their eyes, pure souls shine through,
Bringing out the best in me and you;
Unconditional, the gifts they give,
They only need a chance to live.
Let love light be our guiding star,
May kindness show us who we are,
A nation compassionate enough to agree,
That all life matters, in homes, or free.
Happy New Year, 2026!
~M.Watson
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