8.27.2023 - Best Friend of Man

8.27.2023
Best Friend of Man

Lucky are they who feel damp noses,
Tucked into their necks as they sleep.
The tiny paws twitching in slumber,
Pressed firmly to their backs,
Shoulder to shoulder against all ills,
In their mysterious gaze, you are trusted,
Lucky to be so humbled and a haven.
Not all are offered warm bellies,
Implicit faith and eternal love.
I know no man capable of such devotion,
No woman half as loyal,
No friend as determined,
No lover as steadfast.
We open our homes and are blessed,
By their presence and support.
They ennoble our spirits,
A balm to our restless souls.
All this they offer gladly,
For the low, low price,
Of a thrown ball on a dusty afternoon,
A warm bed to share,
Cool water and the occasional nibble of bacon.
We merely harbor dogs,
For we truly never deserve them.