SAYING GOODBYE

Soon you’ll be gone; why should I cry?

You’ll always be in my mind’s eye

Just out of sight, obscured from view

When shadows move, I’ll know it’s you

You look at me as if to say

“Our time together slips away

We’ve shared so much; had so much fun

It’s been a blast! You’ve watched me run

And leap and dance, so full of life

I’ve brought you joy; I’ve brought you strife

When my reckless spirit pushed me on

Now we both know, those days are gone.”

Then I reply “Those times I treasure

(being mortified beyond all measure

by your headstrong, fiery drive!)

No other dog seemed so alive!

Laughing with you every day

Joining in your games and play.

Feeling you sleep, head on my chest

No other dog so gentle at rest.”

One day, too soon, I won’t reach out

And rub that wiry, ginger snout

And pull your ears and rub your back

And kiss your nose – all wet and black.

But I wouldn’t change a single hour

I know I’ve done all in my power

To fill your life with love and care

There’ll be no regrets when you’re not there.

I’ll remind myself from time to time

“There was a great dog!

And he was mine!

He’s still here – just out of sight

Racing through the dappled light”

Margaret O’Kane