Requiem for a Stray

On August 30th, my day was happily given a short break by a curious little Beagle that had wandered into the shop. He walked around and greeted everyone before continuing on his way. Unfortunatley early on the 31st, he was discovered on the side of the road not far from work. Although he was there only for a moment, everyone misses him.





In the middle of a busy day, you came.
     sniffing whatever you could,
         making aquaintances with a simple pat of the head, or scratch of the back.

your fur, though damp and matted,
    told stories of fields explored.
        after a scratch of the chest, and a sniff of my palm you were on your way.

More humans to meet,
      and strange objects to greet.
          You had no place to be, but everything still to see.

No collar nor a tag,
     just a white tail to wag,
         I wondered if you had a home, or if the streets were always yours to roam.

Without another thought,
     I turned back to my work,
         knowing i'd probably never see you again.

On the way to work the next day,
             on the side of the road,
                 a small sign faced the street, with an inscription that caused my heart to sink.

"To our little Beagle friend. A visit so short, but briefly touched us all. You will be missed."

I heard that day,
    from the one who made the sign,
         that it was made for you, my 30 second friend.

Someday in another life,
      I hope we meet again,
          maybe long enough so I could learn your name.

Goodbye my 4 legged, 30 second friend. You are missed already.