Can You Keep a Secret?
I've never told anyone
I’ve never told this to anyone, but when my family is not home I sleep on the couch. Even if I don't feel very tired, as soon as I lie on that soft, long expanse of cushions I go right to sleep and don't get up until I hear someone coming back to the house.
People don't understand how stressful it is to be always on alert, here to help and nurture everyone else in the family. Dad can go into his office and shut the door and no one will bother him until he comes back out. Not me! My ears are constantly tuned to sounds of distress or disruption, my body ready to jump into action should any need arise. And boy do they arise! With four people around, there are plenty of needs. Most of the time I don't think the people in my family even realize they are needy, but they are. Believe me. And if I weren't here there would be chaos.
Sure, being in charge of everyone else is a heavy responsibility. But I don't mind. In fact, I long for more jobs. My mind is sharp and I won't be this young and agile forever!
In general, this family seems pretty lazy. We only go on one outing a day, for a little over an hour. Sure, it's a long outing, but most of the time, someone is holding on to a leash wrapped around my neck which, to my mind, is short-sighted of them. I mean look at me! I'm a machine! Why would you want to tame this body! Why would anyone hold me back from greatness with a leash? It seems like they use it because of the proximity of so many other people. When we get to the wild, open areas the leash comes off. And believe it or not, that's much more relaxing for me. Then I can suss out danger and forge new paths without having to pull someone else along with me. You see, it's safer for me to go ahead of the pack solo. The family doesn't always get that.
Not only are they lazy, they aren't that bright. To wit, if they simply walked over and touched the couch cushions upon their return to the house they would feel my lingering body heat in the fabric.
