Panda Promise

Still with Love

   He lost his left leg. His left leg was completely gone. His left arm was in a injured. I took him and hugged him tight. I felt pain in my chest.

   Chigo, I'm really sorry.

   The veterinarian came to us and told us some great news.

   "Kelli, Chigo can be brought home tonight. A nurse can stay with you to help Chigo for a week. He had a quick stay here in the hospital but nothing's really wrong though. Yes, he lost his left leg. But his injured left arm isn't so severe. It will heal anytime. But make this a goal, make him happy. Pandas are endangered. But you are given a chance. Kelli, if I were you I'd do my best. The best. But don't forget your family, darling."

   "Thanks, ma'am. I really appreciate your encouragement. I promise to do my best. You know, that Panda Promise I kept has not yet been unlocked. Its still kept. Here," I said while pointing to my heart."I didn't stop taking care of him nor stop loving him. I just wanted him free. Freedom, it is. But I promise to take good care of him. Good care."

   "Oh, Kelli. You are one loving little girl. And yeah, my name is Dorothy Williams. Dorothy for short."

   "Sure, Dorothy. Thanks again."

   "No problem. Okay, let's get going. I'll see you later, darling. They'll feed Chigo and after a while, they'll observe him."

   I nodded with a smile while she headed outside. Rodger said goodbye and left.

   All day, while waiting for Chigo, I slept. I was exhausted and really tired. But I woke up to see if he was ready to be brought home.

   I was excited. I could finally play with him, have fun and make him happy at home. I kneeled to carry him but I realized, he grew bigger and heavier. But I still carried him. My arms were having pins and needles but I didn't let go.

   We were finally in the car. While traveling to our house, he slept. Snorting, snoring and snorting. I never knew pandas could snort though. While traveling, I looked up at the sky and closed my eyes. A tear fell of from my eye. Dear God, thank you. I knew you'd make a beautiful plan for me. But I wish, I could make Chigo happy with my whole heart. Thank you, God.