Love Unconditionally
As is often the case for many LGBTQ people, I went through a difficult time in my life. I had lived the straight life for years and didn’t have my first girlfriend until I was in my late twenties. I dated her for a few years, but kept the relationship hidden from most of my family and friends. When we finally broke up, I was depressed, sad, unmotivated, and felt virtually alone.
I adopted Riley almost a year after the break-up. I had always wanted her, but she came exactly when I really needed her. I needed help rebuilding myself and finding happiness again. As soon as Riley came into my life, I began to change for the better. I wanted to be the best possible mother to this adorable little puppy and it was important to me to be able to provide her with everything she needed to be healthy, happy, and safe. I gave her all of my attention and time, but she wasn’t just a distraction from how I had been feeling and what I knew I was hiding about my life. She had a meaningful purpose in my life and I knew I had not just a responsibility, but a purpose in hers as well. I appreciated every second with her—the perfect little puppy I had always wanted.
There’s a lot of people in this world who still have prejudice and hate in their hearts. They think they know it all and have the right to judge others, but the truth is they have a lot to learn. And they certainly could learn a lot from Riley. Riley doesn’t care that I’m different from her. She didn’t care that I used to be a closeted lesbian. She didn’t treat me any differently when I finally came out to my family and friends. She loves me for me—always has, always will.
The value of unconditional love is one of the greatest lessons Riley has taught me. I think the world would be a better place if more people were like her and didn’t put limitations or restrictions on love. With Riley, there is no question that she loves me (and everyone she meets for that matter). She doesn’t hesitate to show me her love and never makes me feel like I’m not deserving of it. Whether it’s by a lick on my hand or her head on my lap, Riley always lets me know how much she loves me—for who I am and all that I am. She’s the best example of unconditional love I’ve ever known.