I first saw it at an animal rescue center. I had only intended to volunteer, helping with cleaning cages and walking the dogs. In the small backyard garden of the shelter, sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. In the corner, a dog sat quietly on the grass, eyes wary and lonely. The staff told me it had been abandoned multiple times and was cautious around humans, though it longed for affection. I knelt down and spoke to it softly. It slowly lifted its head and hesitantly approached, nudging my hand with its nose. At that moment, I felt a subtle but firm bond of trust. The staff suggested spending time with it to let it adjust to people. So every day, I visited the shelter, tossing a ball in the garden, or sitting on a bench to stroke its fur, letting it feel safe. A few days later, I decided to adopt it. At home, it cautiously explored every corner, sniffing each door and carpet, gradually familiarizing itself with the new space. On weekends, we walked along the river on paths lined with cobblestones, sometimes wandering into small groves to chase leaves blown by the wind. Its coat became shiny and soft, its body strong, and its personality playful. Now, every morning it jumps onto the bed, nudging me awake with its damp nose; at sunset, it suns itself on the windowsill before curling up on the sofa. From a lonely dog in the rescue center to a confident companion at home, it has found its sunlight — and it has brought warmth, patience, and joy into my life. #HowWeMet









