The Bravest One

Over thirty years ago I had the bravest dog, and by her lustrous, fluffy fur I happily called her: the most courageous hound a boy could ever find. On summers' afternoons we went to a baseball field a couple of miles away... it hasn't changed a bit today; all the kids said she behaved well without a bark. Like me she was in the prime of youth, and together we buried my first fallen tooth... were she alive today, she would find it instantly without pausing and thinking for a second where it would be; I may have forgotten the exact spot where that spruce stood, and barking she would be ready to dig it up with claws stronger than wood. O friend of adventurous days that ended in peace a profound sadness overwhelms me with tears, which other dog could replace the love and loyalty you had? You were the bravest one, the kindest one alive... If I had magical powers, I would bring you back and smile!