Wakening
November 27, 2021
(C) Joe Black
First I feel their eyes.
Staring
Breathless
Focused
Before I yawn, stretch, and acknowledge their presence.
In semi-darkness I reach for wayward glasses pulling aside cocooned sheets
The touch of a wet nose
The rush of air stirred by excited tails
Fanning the flames of in-between awakening
Whimpers of hunger, love and delight
Pierce the early morning fog
Building to a crescendo
As they pounce- inches from my face
I breathe deeply and take in
Small remnants of canine dreams
Running, chasing, protecting and reveling
In dog-yeared time:
Seven-fold reminders of joy and devotion-
A delicious invitation to life
I struggle to my feet and shuffle as they leap and dance before me
Eager to greet a new day.
I reach deep into the bin and pour their food
Then, fetching slippers and coffee
I give thanks for this dogged devotion.
I am unworthy
