The Man and his Dog

They walked very slowly, The man and his pet; The dog, with a harness, Was ailing and yet Each morning I’d see them, Both inching along, The limbs maybe weak But the life force still strong. You saw their connection, The man leaning close And giving support In a much-needed dose. We never conversed, At least not ‘til today, When I spotted the man, All alone, on his way. “Where’s your dog?’ without thinking, I just blurted out, Though the answer, “She passed,” I’d expected, no doubt. When I said I was sorry, He thanked me and said, “She was near 17,” Then he lowered his head And he walked away slowly, But not like before, Having no one who needs His support anymore.