I lost a dear friend for almost 17 years, our oldest Papillon recently.  No matter how you try to prepare yourself for the inevitable, it still is difficult when the day arrives.  Over the years, I've had people order the print "Until My Arms Ache" to give to a loved one (or themselves) after the death of a pet.  So many vets have it hanging in their offices to offer solace as well.  I thought it would be fitting to share it on my blog, with a photo of my eldest daughter (who was glued to this beloved dog.)  In memory of Mariposa...

Until My Arms Ache

“My dearest friend, do I appreciate you enough?

When we touch, can I feel your soul?

Life is so brief and often tough

All we have is this moment, we may not grow old

And things change so fast…

Is happiness for us?

Or just for the bold

The strong and the brave

I don’t want to behave

In the way I’ve seen others do

What about you?

They look at each other without seeing

Live in the future, but not being

A part of the now

Will you bask in the glow of my smile…

At least for a while?

And let me hold you

Until my arms ache.”

(c) Launa

To view this print, see WWW.Poetryart.net