I'd like to show some love and gratitude to some very special people, without whom I wouldn't be able to make this dream a reality. Firstly, the Big G, without Whom nothing would be possible.
My family, for their unconditional love and support whether we're a pond or oceans apart. I am the luckiest girl in the world for having maternal grandparents who have made sacrifices for me since day 1, and who have given their everything to raise me to be a good human being. I credit them for every positive trait of mine, and take full responsibility for every negative trait of mine. You both are my soul.
My parents, who are ever present despite my absence, whose love knows no bounds. I will always be your little girl; I hope I never let you down. My stepmother, for loving my Papa in a way that no one else can; I am ever grateful to you. My half-siblings for our unbreakable bond, for believing I am bulletproof yet loving me through my fragilities. It is my utmost wish that you know how much I love you both. My aunts and uncles for being parental figures, protectors and lifelines, and my cousins for being more like siblings, best friends and everything that is right in my world. I would be lost without all of you.
My BFFs in Singapore, a group of fiercely independent, beautiful and successful women who love me at my best, my worst and everything in between. I have to single out my soul sisters Nadiah, Hanna and Siti for being the people they are, without whom our vacation in December of 2015, would not have been epic. It is they who reminded me of the girl I once was, which in turn has led me to the best chapter of my life.
My friends and family in the city of angels, city of sin and city of emeralds. You make the West Coast the best coast. I am indebted to your friendship and love, and hope I make you feel as precious as you make me feel.
My therapist, Barbara Weiss, who has taught me to love myself and not just others, who reminds me I am worthy of the life I've always wanted. Thank you for encouraging me to pursue this dream and all others. My broker, Mr. Bud Kopp, Founder of Sound Commercial Group, for guiding me through this difficult task of finding a location for The Haus of Dogs.
To Zayn Cangrejo, for generously bringing to life, all of my artistic visions. For your input and patience with my perfectionism. I love the logo.
My dog Ninja, the one who loved me first. I hope you know I carry you with me, and nothing will fill the void in my heart from not having you with me. Castle, my first rescue, you kept me alive when I was lifeless. You are my heart. Dublin, my adventurous, squirrel-chasing boy, your affinity towards humans despite your past, is the embodiment of unconditional love. I love you way more than you love chicken. Haus, I'd yearned for a large cuddle bug of a dog for as long as I can remember. I waited forever to cross paths with you and I am so grateful that you are my first big baby. My heart cannot contain all the love I have for you. I'm so glad I named my dream after you.
My mission to save dogs from senseless euthanasia in high-kill shelters and provide them with a safe, loving and liberating sanctuary while finding them permanent well-suited homes, would not be possible without my Papa's belief in me. It is because of his gift and support that I am able to advocate on behalf of dogs who have been abused, who have wandered the streets, who have no one and no home to call their own. I love you, Papa.
Brian, thank you for your support and faith in me. Thank you for the sacrifices you make that enable me to pursue this dream. Thank you for protecting me, for loving me even on days when I am not lovable. You are the light in my life and the love of my life.
To Papa Scheffler, thank you for being my father figure, for all your support, advice and delicious cooking. You have ruined restaurant dining for me. I have tremendous respect and love for you.
To all of our partners, vendors, customers and adopters, please join me in championing a great cause, for great dogs. I thank you in advance for your support. I will not be able to do this without my Washington warriors by my side.
With gratitude,
Aishah
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