an abusive family and he had several issues that held
over from his treatment there. But it didn't take long
before he became devoted to me and wanted to be with
me where ever I was. He never wanted to be first though,
he always walked just a step behind me.
He went to obedience class and really enjoyed doing his
homework. Once he learned that the words I was saying
had meaning he started to learn more and more words
until we had to begin to spell things to keep him from
going crazy every time he heard the words ride, walk, or
pizza boy.
Unfortunately, just before his 10th birthday he
developed stomach cancer. Early in the morning on
September 16, 2001 Buddha woke me up and crawled into
my arms where I held him and told him that he needed
to go first this time and to not be afraid because soon he
would be able to run like the wind and not have to worry
about reaching the end of the chain.
I could see that you were crying, you found it hard to sleep.
I whined to you softly as you brushed away a tear,
"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."
I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea,
You were thinking of the many times your hands reached down to me.
I was with you at the shops today, your arms were getting sore.
I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.
I was with you at my grave today, you tended it with care.
I want to reassure you that I'm not lying there.
I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key,
I gently put my paw on you, I smiled and said, "It's me."
You looked so very tired as you sank into a chair.
I tried so hard to let you know that I was standing there.
It's possible for me to be so near you everyday,
To say with certainty, "I never went away."
You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew...
In the stillness of the evening I was very close to you.
Now the day is over and I smile and watch you yawning,
And say "Goodnight and God bless, I'll see you in the morning."
And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide,
I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand side by side.
I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see,
Be patient, live your journey out, then come home to be with me.
Alex who sometimes needs a haircut
that look like the boys
cleanliness
property laws
life