Have you heard about Faith, the "junkyard" dog born without front legs, who still manages to walk? Well it is a terrific story about the power of persistence and love.
Faith is owned by Jude Stringfellow, who is also an English professor. Using peanut butter and patience, she taught Faith to walk on her hind legs, which she has done in many venues, including the television sets of most major talk-shows. She had even toured with Ozzy Osbourne. But her most cherished tour of duty has been to visit veterans' hospitals across the country.
You see, Stringfellow's son, Reuben, the one who originally rescued Faith, is an Army E-4 specialist currently stationed in Alaska. He is scheduled to end his military service (which has included tours in Iraq) on January 1, 2010 and return home.
Visiting the veterans' hospitals hits home for Jude as well as for the many veterans who continue to be inspired by Faith. "There is a lot of crying, pointing and surprise," says Stringfellow. "From those who have lost friends or limbs, there can be silence. Some will shake my hand and thank me, some will pat her on the head. There is a lot of quiet, heartfelt, really deep emotion."
Stringfellow has written two books about Faith and is at work on her third, titled, Faith Walks. 'Tis the season to be reminded that hope comes in all sorts of packages.
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