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A Little Dog

Once I roamed through the woodlands With my large old shepherd companion. We walked fearless, through redwoods and pines, Through vines and ferns To the top of the Cross mountain. There we stood gazing out over the hills Covered with sage and lavender, Over the tops of homes cream and salmon, The tall buildings of cement and glass On the shores of an emerald bay. We made our way by the pampas grass Onto the dunes and sands, Felt the water spray of the waves As they hurled onto the shores. We walked freely then in the world As only nature’s top predators can. Gone now into ashes and into ground My big dog is no more. For now I have a little dog Who jumps up anxiously for the treat in my hands. When worried she barks and bears her teeth, Or crouches down onto the ground. No long walks into the forest deep Or along its mossy paths. To a coyote or cougar she would appear As an easy light meal And I fear I would not be able To keep them away. So, no more wandering freely Through the grandeur of the land. I no longer walk along the unpredictable sea Where rogue waves crash and crush; Where unforgiving and unfeeling forces flow. So now we stand upon the cliffs Behind the gray old redwood fence. Once, I had a big dog and we walked freely Along the glorious shores. Now I keep my little dog close And when a stranger knocks We stay behind closed doors.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2010




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Date: 12/12/2010 9:11:00 AM
Wnated to thank you for your comment, Linda, and found myself rereading this wonderful poem. Wishing you happy holidays! Love, Carolyn
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Date: 12/8/2010 4:13:00 PM
this is one excellent write here my friend
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Date: 12/3/2010 8:54:00 PM
This is awesome writing, Linda. Comparing those two dogs like that. and giving us your take on life and nature at the same time. Marvelous. LUv,Andrea
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Date: 11/26/2010 4:44:00 PM
A stunning and sensitive write Linda.. we have a one year old shepherd puppy now..he is so full of life and luv.. enjoyed this wonderful write tonight .. happy weekend with luv..
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Date: 11/26/2010 1:21:00 PM
Dear Linda.I love this,your description of your big faithful friend is wonderful.I walked your paths and sensed your freedom through your words.But little dog so sweet and endearing, I took to my heart.I also feel your protective love for your little friend.Okay he might not have the force but any unwelcome strangers he could always bite their ankles! Thanks for reading my work,and all your generous comments.It was esp a pleasure to share 'One for All' with you.Love June(S)
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Date: 11/26/2010 12:51:00 PM
Emtional and sentimental write on the little and the large dogs, linda
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Date: 11/26/2010 11:34:00 AM
This is so touching, Linda. Take good care of that little dog. I'm sorry you lost the large one that offered you so much companionship.
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Date: 11/26/2010 11:22:00 AM
You share such wonderful memories of your shepherd dog, Linda. How sad that you have to be more careful in protecting your little dog and can't enjoy all the same activities with her. You created a masterpiece here and this poem goes to my favorites. Wishing you a joyous holiday season, Carolyn
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