A Dog's Last Will and Testament

Before humans die, they write their last will and testament, give their home and all they have to those they leave behind. If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I would ask.

To a poor and lonely stray, I'd give:

• my happy home
• my bowl and cozy bed, soft pillows and all my toys
• the lap which I loved so much and the tender loving touch
• the hand that stroked my fur and the sweet voice which called my name

I'd will to the sad, scared shelter dog, the place I had in my human's loving heart, of which their seemed no bounds.

So, when I die, please do not say, "I will never have a pet again, for the loss and the pain are more than I can stand." Instead, go find an unloved animal, one who's life holds no hope or joy, and give my place to him.

This is the only thing that I can give... the love I left behind.



Text found at Galveston Daily News ["Author anonymous, included in a recently published book in Germany 'Der Verlust eines Hundes' (The Loss of a Dog) by Elli Radinger, translated by Janet Beasley."]
Image found at Sandy Schepis's Google+ stream [click image to view larger]

Legacy From Eileen

by Ceciley Cranstoun

'Goodbye,' I whispered softly
And watched as she passed by
While others all around me
Bowed their heads and cried.

My thoughts turned to her paintings,
Huts, silent in soft light,
Herons, cranes in marshlands,
Or startled birds in flight.

Her eyes absorbed the beauty
That others failed to see.
She brushed into a keepsake
A treasure meant for me.

Though Eileen has departed
With eyes closed as in sleep,
Her spirit framed in brushstrokes
Remained, and healed my grief.

in remembrance of Eileen Gleeson, June 1993
published in Ascot Hangings (ISBN 0-8643-9198-6)