A Letter to my Dog

Your puppy days and twilight years

Are not so distant neighbors.

If I could prolong the moments left,

I would beg for many favors.

But as you smile happily

As you lie relaxing next to me,

I am reminded that it's time enough

To keep you company and just be.

You are a joyful, eager soul.

If your tail's not wagging, are you you?

But the years are taking their high toll.

You're the same and different; both are true.

In the days that we have left,

I promise to be there for you.

And when it's time to close your eyes,

I promise, I'll be right there too.

*************************************

Kimberlee Long, March 12th, 2024

Titusville, FL. Photo by Kimberlee Long. Pictured: Coconut the Coonhound/Lab Mutt and Salami the (mostly) Burmese cat.