Companion by My Side

A shadow walks beside me

Footsteps in time with mine

A tongue pants

Amber eyes laugh

The shadow remains constant even though

The hallowed place in the shade beneath the tree is empty

No footprints

No wagging tail marks there

The food dish has been washed and put away

Water in the drinking bowl evaporated long ago

A leash hangs unused beside the door

No one greets me after a long day

No one warns me of strangers near

Still I hear...

The welcome thud of a happy tail

The questioning yipe of an inquisitive mind

Because I still feel my faithful companion by my side

As time is said to heal all wounds

Eventually...

Black fur, amber eyes and a cold nose wait beside my door

We grow together, this fur and I

Laughter dries my tears as I watch the fur learn

NOT to yank clothes from the line

NOT to eat my flowers

OR spread trash throughout the yard

The shadow has become a pleasant beloved memory

Because...

Another companion scampers by my side