Saying YES to Life

Writing the book is a project of untold proportions. Just when I think a chapter’s finished, another point comes up to be included. The last chapter is Smart Women Say YES to Life. So I’m going to tell about Beverly Morano, a mother who ‘jumped on a grenade’ because her daughter, Sarah Murray, asked her. It concerns Black Dog, a savvy, rouge with dreadlocks who first made headlines in Richmond about 9 years ago.

Black Dog evaded dog catchers and city officials trying to catch him. As officials’ attempts were reported daily, fans in the area cheered him on. Everyone loves a winner, especially when it’s a ‘dumb’ animal against authorities.

He 'walked' frequently with me ~ at a distance. Attempts to befriend him were met with loving, kind eyes as he stood stone still or backed up as I stepped closer. That was the Black Dog way ~ you can see me and you're not touching me.

Sarah Murray was instrumental in bringing attention to the city’s pursuit 9 years ago. She and neighbors created T shirts noting his success with proceeds going into a fund to care for him should he need it.

Sadly, Black Dog was killed July 2. It was a blow to the community who reported sightings on his Facebook page and among neighbors. You can read about him at http://tinyurl.com/lesoxk.

When a few fans decided to memorialize him with another shirt using funds Black Dog never used, Sarah asked her mother, Beverly, to take on the project of taking and filling orders.

I called Beverly to order my shirt and met a smart women saying yes to life. She also kept food and shelter available for Black Dog when he chose to use it. She shared stories of her experiences with Black Dog ‘walking’ with her and her family. With no idea of what she was getting into, she said yes and ‘jumped on a grenade’.

Beverly has talked to fans in FL and a judge in western VA who gave his chamber’s number to call when his shirt comes. The second round of shirts are in progress and she’s having much fun talking to Black Dog fans. Bev is saying YES to life.

Have to go now and get my shirt that just arrived. I get to meet smart woman Beverly Morano, whose kitchen is filled with Black Dog shirts.