Paul S. Gifford

GOODBYE IS THE HARDEST WORD TO SAY

How often we just take for granted –
indeed how frequently we forget,
just how special and rewarding
is the unconditional love of a pet.

Those little four legged critters,
we adopt into our own household,
just how much contentment they bring
could never ever truly be fully told…

As I sit here my canine Tasha,
lies quietly resting upon my feet;
she is the most beautifully spirited dog
you could ever have the pleasure to meet.

She has been my sweet loving girl,
for going on six blessed years,
I could never express all she means to me,
and the thought of it brings me to tears.

For I rescued her just six years ago,
She as homeless and struggling for life;
Tasha had suffered from lack of care –
and it was simply mutual love at first sight.

For she is starting now to get older,
each day she’s a little more tired,
I find it hard to conjure the words,
but for my heart’s sake I know their required.

For each day she is growing weaker,
her life-energy is starting to wane
and I know that life without her
simply will never be the same.

The vet says it’s just old age,
for she is getting close to eleven,
that soon she must leave my side,
to wait patiently for me in heaven.

But ol’ girl I’ll never forget thee,
you have made me the man that I am.
And for your last weeks beside me,
I will comfort you the best that I can.

For I know that your work is complete
And to the rainbow bridge you must go,
but the magical memories in your wake,
must be stronger than my grief and sorrow.

For you’ll live on in my heart for always,
I will treasure your memory so true,
For dear Tasha know this for always,
how incredibly much we all loved you…