EPITAPH FOR A FRIEND
Desolate and dark that day, held fast in memory.
The blackest day on record, is how it seemed to me.
A faithful friend of fourteen years was laid to rest that day.
A loving, true companion, sincere in every way.
She never asked for much in life, her food, a pat, a walk.
When times were hard for me to bear, she'd sit and let me talk.
I tried to think of goodtimes, we'd shared within our lives.
But all I saw before me was sad and mournful eyes.
I tried to say, it's for the best, I hope you understand.
My tears fell unashamedly, her head held in my hand.
Folk say you'll get another pet, that time will surely heal.
But the bond between the two of us, was very strong and real.
So desolate and dark that day, how can I convey to you.
The day I put my dog to sleep, a part of me died too.
But if there is a heaven, and I must believe that's true,
She'll run to meet me at the gate, just like she used to do.
Copyright Emily Cooper-Wright 1996