Old Dog

Old Dog
by Tam Nesbit

Darling,
The hesitation in your step
makes my heart ache,
knowing that you're wondering,
hoping,
is this the last home?
Will I have to move again?
How will she know who I am?

Beautiful,
I see your history in your eyes
and in those small quirks,
in your startles and starts.
Oh, I know I'll never know
the whole story of you
but together
we can patch things up,
heal old wounds,
soothe old fears.

Beloved,
I respect your years,
and I promise
you will grow old with me
in comfort,
in love,
in safety.
And when your years are done,
I will see you through your passing,
and keep you close
in my arms,
in my heart.

You will live forever.