little dog Molly
after divorce I found you
man whose loneliness
only a spirit like you could ease
cardboard box dusty brothers and sisters
away from farm in hands of friends
new home at Clear Lake
you cried all night for family
a little bird that couldn't fly
I fed you and let you know
things would be ok
you grew and we explored
your fearless heart beating
two times to mine
finding work we left for new water
different woods begged exploration
damp nose sniffing
canine explosion you flew!
Port Carling's hills had never seen
the likes of Molly
pure exultation on four paws
we ran those roads together
when evening fell on pine and spruce
your eyes rested quietly as
I with lovers whispered
again we found new water
endless fields to Huron's rocky beach
it was all yours and remains yours
even the place where you fell to
coyote's razor teeth
to escape and turn on your attackers
while banging pots and pans
we begged you to return
"she was lucky, most don't get away"
muttered vet fussing over gaping wounds
you, sparkle in your eye
invincible
healing quicker than
coyote's pride
to north returning
forest, hill, and rabbit
because little dogs and children
often see eye to eye
but you had open spaces
hunt and Highland air
a loving hand
other furry friends for play
life was play and sleep
though play the greater part
you quickened those around you
indefatigable zest
stilled only by disease
how can I thank a dog
(or any love deceased)
appreciation overflowing
when no one was there
you were there
and now you're gone forever
in my mind's eye I see you running
mouth open scooping up the wind
dark eyes flashing pure joy
Va! Molly Va!
rest only at earth's warm hearth
home for all once beating hearts
