My name is Zen and the big fluffy guy next to me is my best friend Hoshi. I became his brother when I was adopted into the family two years ago. Little does Hoshi know he was the answer to all my prayers. You see, after being abandoned out on the streets, I prayed for warmth. After being brought in to the shelter, I prayed for comfort. After being surrounded by loud barks from the other dogs, I prayed for protection. After being left alone, I prayed for love. Every night, I prayed and I prayed for a miracle. Just as fate would have it, my prayers were answered. With Hoshi, I have someone to keep me warm, to give me comfort, and to provide me protection. Most importantly, I have someone to love and who loves me back. He is my miracle and I like to think I am his. We endured pain in our own way, only to be brought together by the universe to help each other heal. I was there for him when the condition of his eyes excruciatingly worsened, ultimately resulting in surgery. He was there for me during the diagnosis of my heart disease. For us, everyday waking day is a blessing, for our tomorrow is never promised. That is why, despite our circumstances, we make every single moment count. Together we live and love for today, moving forward with enthusiasm and optimism. I believe we all have a soul mate, and well, Hoshi has always been mine. As Lao Tzu once said, "Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage." 

This is Zen, Hoshi and my story. What's yours?

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