In 2017 I took a poetry class at school and found out I love writing poetry. I read poetry quite often. Charles Bukowski is my favorite poet – if you like poetry, or just reading in general, check him out. I keep a book that I write poems in when they come to my mind. I don’t think I’ve ever shared one publicly until now. I may rework this later, but until then, here is a poem for my dogs:
People say they love puppies,
And I do too.
But never in my life,
Have I loved someone as much as I love the older you.
You’re always up for an adventure or a break when we need one,
And you’re always up for a nap or just resting on my lap.
You don’t pull the leash and no longer need to greet people face to face.
Though you waddle when you walk, you can still keep a fast pace.
When I brought you home, you were tiny and cute,
But you were covered in fleas and clearly needed someone like me.
Quickly you grew, and though some bad habits you certainly had,
I loved you more and more each day and vowed to never let you feel sad.
Over the years we have matured together.
You’ve helped me become kinder, more understanding, and overall better.
You’ve seen me at my best, and you’ve seen me at my worst,
But no matter what happens in life, we always put each other first.
Years have passed and each day our bond strengthens.
We have shown each other nothing but love and patience.
Today you are a senior dog and each day you grow older.
The grays on your face steadily become bolder.
As the days go by, my promise to you is that I will always be by your side.
You will never feel alone or forgotten.
You will never be abandoned or neglected.
You will forever be my best friend and I will love you until the very end.
And that is why when people say they love puppies,
I say I do too.
But never in my life,
Have I loved someone as much as I love the older you.