Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies for short, are a very small breed of dog. They usually weigh between 4-7 pounds and have silky, long fur. Yorkies come in different colors like black, brown, white, and gray. They have cute little pointy ears that stand up tall. Despite their tiny size, Yorkies have big personalities and lots of spirit!

During World War II, a 4 pound Yorkie pup named Smoky exemplified the big heart and bravery these little dogs can have. Smoky was found in 1944 by an American GI named Frank while he was stationed in the steamy jungles of New Guinea. All the soldiers in Frank’s unit loved having the peppy pint-sized pup around as their mascot.

Smoky went everywhere with the troops, keeping their spirits up with her silly tricks. She brightened their days by doing things like wiggling her way through tiny spaces or cleverly spelling out letters with her paws. Smoky’s sweet, playful personality brought many smiles and reminded the homesick troops of the happy lives waiting for them. Her companionship gave daily encouragement.

But Smoky showed she was more than just a cute, fluffy mascot one day in particular. The soldiers were cautiously exploring a rocky area, knowing enemy snipers had been spotted nearby. Suddenly, Smoky started barking urgently and running back and forth. Seconds later, shots rang out from a sniper perched on a ridge who was just taking aim at the troops. Smoky’s sharp hearing had detected the danger first, warning them just in time.

Thanks to the tiny pup’s loud alarms, the soldiers were able to dive behind large rocks for cover. Smoky had saved many of the men from being hit by scrambling for safety before the sniper opened fire. The soldiers realized her excellent ears could warn of attacks before humans heard them coming. Her acute hearing saved many lives.

Smoky’s quick reaction to subtle sounds was crucial in saving lives. Her story reminds us how important it is to listen closely. The Bible says “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19)

When we pay attention and listen well, like Smoky listened intently with her keen puppy ears, we can avoid a lot of harm and trouble. Listening helps us follow instructions correctly, know when someone needs our help, and catch important details we might otherwise miss. God gave us two ears and one mouth for good reason – to listen more than we speak!

Smoky teaches us to tune our ears to hear even faint calls for help. We can practice listening better at home and school so we don’t miss out on what God might be telling us through others. When we take time to listen closely, we are ready to act quickly whenever someone needs us. Listening well allows us to be loyal friends who bring comfort, just like vigilant little Smoky.

Today, ask God to help you become a better listener. Take time to truly listen to those around you. See how paying attention can allow you to encourage others and brighten their day with your gifts!

Today’s Action Plan:

1. Thank God that even little you can uplift others through kindness like tiny Smoky.
2. Draw Smoky with perked up ears to remember to share friendship, comfort, and helpful warnings.
3. Tell someone Smoky’s story and look for ways to encourage others!