Fog over green hills, the smell of leather, my jacket stiff with its newness, the expensive watch peeping from my cuff as I swing my arms.
My dog trots at the end of his lead, his white fur yellow like an old newspaper, his once-supple walk stiffened by age and injury.
He knows my pocket holds a tennis ball, knows and loves this fact, game for the daily exercise that now hurts more than helps.
Until today I’ve ignored his age, the wet rug smell of him, his tartarous teeth.
He jolts along, stretching out like a shadow before me.
A new jacket and an old dog. I imagine it to be the newness of the purchases that finally allow the narrator to see the dog’s age
A melancholy thought to spoil a good walk, but some signs can’t be ignored.
Oh, my heart! The saddest part about loving dogs–they die way before we’re ready.
Evocatively crafted with the juxtaposition of images and the “long shadow,” as the foreshadowing of death.
Dear Josh,
It’s not fair that our pets can’t live as long as we do. You captured the bond and the heart and soul of the loyal companion. Well done.
Shalom,
Rochelle
“Until today,” two words that say so much. Well done.
Old Shep was playing in my mind as I read this. Sad.
Here’s mine!
Thought provoking stuff, Its so sad when a dog gets old, we know whats going to happen. Great stuff
This is a fine piece of writing, sad but fine
Beautiful vignette. I love “He knows my pocket holds an old tennis ball…”. The wise knowing of dogs, which focusses on the important things.
Damp dog is a unique and well-loved aroma. Good piece.
Aw, such a bittersweet story. This one hit me in the heart. Thank you for sharing.
This was really moving. I’ve made the same observations myself over the years, acknowledging that there’s something you’ll have to get the other side of, but wanting to hang onto every minute before you do. Good one.
Oh, this struck a nerve. We have an old, delightfully snuggly “found” kitty that is going down hill faster than we’d like. Sad our fuzzy buddies die too soon.
Great story. The imagery is really strong.
I love your blog. I’ll like to nominate you for an award, if you don’t mind
Thanks. Sure, if you like