On Time

Paul looked deeply
into his old dog’s eyes
and knew his old dog
wanted to die.

He lifted his old dog
onto the couch
so the old dog could lay
his gray muzzle on Paul’s lap.

For a time, the old dog
luxuriated in the familiar touch
of Paul’s hand stroking his back
and flank and behind his ears.

Then he sighed contentment
and left.

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copyright © 2019 Kenneth P. Gurney