1. My Life is likely to last 10 to 15 years.
ANY SEPARATION from you is PAINFUL for me.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me... it's CRUCIAL to my well being.

4. Do not be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up
for punishment. You have your work, your friends, and
your entertainment, ALL I HAVE IS YOU.

5. TALK to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words,
I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.

6. Be aware HOWEVER you treat me, I will never forget.

7. Remember before you hit me, that I have teeth that could
easily crush the bones of your hand, but choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy,
ask yourself if something may be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not
being given the right foods, I've been out in the sun too long,
or my heart is getting old and weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old... you too will grow old.