An adorable, very cute, handsome puppy
that was me, according to my human parents.
For five years, both were my protectors
full of delight and lots of treats and play.

Then I woke up in a contained weird space
I could not run fast or walk on my own.
Dogs were barking, whining, howling
I was sundered by the desertion of my fur parents.

Flashback of what ensued before I was dumped
they giggled and laughed at my newborn human sibling.
The baby cried and was fed until he fell asleep
while I was forgotten, left alone in the dark.

I waited for my nibbles, treats, a bowl of water
I could not go out anymore - I messed up inside.
Hungry, thirsty, confused, ignored and kicked
abandoned and abused day in and day out.

You have had me since November 2015...
Cranky, growling, suspicious, protective
that's how you got me.

I know there were times
you wanted to chuck up the sponge by putting me back to where I was
in that cold, lonely sanctuary.

Please don't give up on me...
I will be the most affectionate pet
just help and allow me to prove my worth I love you, Mom, and thank you.

Karl speaking his mind :))
-June 8/20

*Sadly, KARL passed away six months
after this allegorical verse was composed ;((.

SALLIE

**************************************************

THANK YOU FOR THE MEMORIES

You were my medicine, Karl...my therapist, the light in my world
You were my loyal friend, my constant companion and inspiration.
You made me happy for five years and two weeks to be exact
Giving me unconditional love, ready to protect and stand by me.

I did not just lose you as a pet, as a cherished buddy
I also lost your unwavering comradeship and you as my anchor.
You were my safety net, my happiness, my everything
You were my confidant, my shadow, the glow in my eyes.

The reality of being without you started to sink in
My bereaved heart is broken and it doesn't seal up.
I screamed on top of my lungs and cried like a river
You were my comfort, my solace through thick and thin.

I am struggling to forgive myself for not being able to save you
I collapsed on the floor in extreme grief and sadness.
I still can't believe you're gone and nowhere to be found
I miss you so much, my precious boy, I long for you each day.

Why does my heart must endure this kind of emotional suffering?
The intense pain and loneliness without you are tough and unbearable.
It hit me a lot when you left me, harder than I expected
But I am lucky to have you to grieve for and making goodbye so hard.

"I will always love you, Karl and we will meet again
in another time, in a happier place."

- SALLIE
Jan. 3, 2021/8:52 PM

**************************************************

Hello, Karl. Each day without you feels like a heavy weight on my heart. I still cherish the memories we shared. The pain of your absence is a wound that time has yet to heal, and words seem inadequate to capture the depth of my longing for you. I just released my second book, and I dedicated it to you. The title is "A Whirlwind of Emotions," a collection in which I blend your captivating photographs with my heartfelt poems dedicated to you and Dork. Each image captures a unique moment, while the verses reflect the depth of our shared experiences and genuine companionship. I miss you beyond words :((.

This is what I wrote in my dedication for the 144 pages; 23 are colored.

"In memory of Karl who came into my life in 2015 and left on Dec. 15, 2020. He was more than a pet; he was a loyal companion, a beacon of light during my darkest days. Like my faithful Border Collie, he brought comfort into my life. Their absence is keenly felt, and they will always hold a special place in my heart."

-SALLIE/Nov. 9, 2024