by Jayne Platts
He's my other eyes that can see above the clouds; my other ears that hear above the winds. He is the part of me that can reach into the sea. He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being, by the way he rests his head against my leg. But the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile. Byt the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him. (I think it makes him sick with worry when he is not along to care for me). When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive. When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile. When I am happy, he is joy unbounded. When I am a fool, he ignores it. When I succeed, he brags. Without him I am only another woman (man). With him, I am safe. He has taught me the meaning of devotion. He is loyalty itself. With him I know a secret comfort and a private peace. He has brought me understanding, where before I was ignorant. His head on my knee can cure human hurts. His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and unknown things. And all he asks in return is a kind word, a pat on the head and a fair change to understand what is expected from him. He has promised to unselfishly sacrifice his life for me, so that each day when I go to work I can return home to my family . . . .our family. The only sacrifice he asks of me, is when the time comes, when life holds no more comfort, when the sparkle in his eyes has dimmed, that I too be unselfish and let him go. That I be by HIS side just this once as he has been by mine coungtless thousands of times before over the years. That I comfort him as he goes into a peaceful, painless sleep. And one last time, I will see for just a brief moment that sparkle in his eyes, as he says "THANK YOU" and "GOODBYE" . . . . .He's my partner. . . . . . . . .I love and miss you both very much. Your mom, Jayne