In the mystical heart of Jerusalem, along the ancient stones that mirrored the golden hues of history, an incident unfolded by the banks of the cherished Jordan River, which carried tales as old as time itself.

As the river hummed its ceaseless song, Shlomo, a man deeply entrenched in his Jewish faith, paused his steps. The deep connection he harboured with the city seemed to echo in the rhythmic flow of the Jordan, a river reverberating with countless tales from the Torah.

Suddenly, the tranquility of the day was shattered. A dog, perhaps overwhelmed by the river's might, found itself caught in the fast-flowing waters, a picture of desperation as it struggled against the currents. Shlomo’s heart contracted, his soul echoing with the panic-stricken beats from the frantic creature. Without a moment's hesitation, he leaped into the turbulent waters.

Every heartbeat felt like an eternity as Shlomo battled against the river’s pull, before finally reaching the frightened animal. With a surge of relief, bystanders watched as both man and dog emerged from the river, a beacon of hope amidst the drenched backdrop of Jerusalem’s golden stones.

As Shlomo stepped ashore, dripping wet, and bearing the terrified dog in his arms, a voice pierced through the gathering crowd. An elderly lady with keen eyes that held tales of yesteryears approached. She had a nurturing presence, her accent rich with the warm familiarity of the Jewish quarters of Jerusalem.

Her voice trembled with concern as she exclaimed, “Oh dear, you obviously have a deep affection for God’s creatures to risk your life so. Are you a vet?”

Shlomo, gasping and yet exhilarated by the rush of adrenaline, paused. He looked down at the concerned lady, and then at his dripping clothes clinging to his frame, a gentle chuckle escaped him, breaking the tension and inviting smiles from the onlookers. He shook his head, his face breaking into a heartwarming smile that reached his eyes, lighting them up with joy and relief as he said, in his Yiddish accent, “A vet? Of course I’m a vet. I’m soaked to the bone already!”

© Peter Pickering 2024. www.peterpickering.com