A Difficult Decision

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Tribune Challenge Poetry Contest, Sponsor - Oliver McKeithan. Date written: 07/26/2025

dog stricken with cancer; euthanized. out of her m i s e r y; dog owner hollowed out by deep grief; best friend, gone!

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Paula Goldsmith

Date: 7/30/2025 10:14:00 AM

Congratulations on your win. I enjoyed reading your wonderful yet sad write. I have lost a number of pets over the years. Few were like going through hell. Have a blessed day with your win...........

Edward Ibeh
Date: 7/30/2025 1:04:00 PM

Thank you so much, Paula:-) You, too!

Charles Messina

Date: 7/30/2025 9:36:00 AM

Boy, this one- hits home with many. Congratulations on your top win Edward! ~CM

Edward Ibeh
Date: 7/30/2025 1:03:00 PM

Thank you very much, Charles:-)

Speaks Volumes

Date: 7/29/2025 3:10:00 PM

This struck a nerve! We have an eleven year old. He has had 3 operations to remove cancerous lumps and being a giant breed their life expectancy is 8 - 10 years. Despite our love for this beautiful boy, and that he seems so healthy right now, we know we are enjoying borrowed time. Your poem brought tears Edward, a wonderful choice to pack emotion into a few words. Unique as usual. Well done.

Edward Ibeh
Date: 7/29/2025 6:53:00 PM

Thank you for sharing and for the compliment, SV. I'm glad this poem resonated with you, my friend.

Oliver Mckeithan

Date: 7/29/2025 12:23:00 PM

Congrats on your placement in my contest but a very sad moment. Dogs are part of the family. My wife and I are long time dog owners and have had to put some to sleep. It is not easy. My sympathies are with you.

Edward Ibeh
Date: 7/29/2025 1:09:00 PM

Thank you very much for congratulations and my placement, Oliver. This poem is actually about a neighbor of mine. I can't even imagine how painful it is lose a pet, especially to cancer. .