Buddy

Ross still rides his Harley, if the weather's good.
Can't get away much, like he used to.
Thursday morning breakfast with the airplane guys,
Talking farm prices;
what the dog's been doing.
He can't stay long; she can't be alone.
"She's been fading lately.
Sixty years together and she doesn't know
who I am sometimes."
     But the dog does.

He'll leave early, be home to fix her breakfast 
when she wakes.  She'll not be appreciative.
Doesn't think about the cost anymore,
to bent, arthritic body parts.
Sometimes she won't eat what he prepares.
     But the dog will.

Ross doesn't hear the banter;
he's staring through his oatmeal bowl,
counting fearful minutes.
     "How's Buddy," I ask?
Ross comes slowly back, eyes refocused.
He smiles.
     "I wouldn't take a thousand dollars for that dog."
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010

Poem

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Falgout Avatar
September 19, 2012 at 10:08 PM
Some things just can't have a price on it, congrats, love debra
Mason Avatar
September 19, 2012 at 3:00 PM
well done! I like your poem very much. warm thoughts, Ralph
Roske Avatar
September 19, 2012 at 12:06 PM
a sad but true reality - brings back memories of my grandparents last years together. Well done
A   Avatar
September 17, 2012 at 2:31 PM
WAYNE, congratulations with your awesome featured poem of the week... enjoy your day :-) PD
Austin Avatar
September 17, 2012 at 2:19 PM
I like the stoic touch here. Congrats on the selection. daver
Johnson Avatar
September 2, 2010 at 5:37 PM
A nice compassionate, understanding poem. Dogs are such comforting friends. Thank you for your comments on my stab at humor. Love, Joyce
A   Avatar
September 2, 2010 at 1:52 PM
nice one, enjoyed your write..P.D.
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