"Just" a Dog

This poem is in a post from a blog I follow. We all know I'm a giant softy - add in I lost Ringo just two months ago, and I was a sobbing mess. A gorgeous piece,  it brings back all the memories fond, and not so much of being a dog owner. Though my heart isn't ready for a new fur love, I will wait patiently, basking in the unforgettable experience that is, dog ownership. They truly are a girls best friend.

Just a Dog

From time to time people tell me, "Lighten up. It's just a dog." or "That's a lot of money for just a dog."

They don't understand the distance traveled, time spent or costs involved for "Just a dog".

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "Just a dog."

Many hours have passed with my only company being "Just a dog". 

And not once have I felt slighted. 

Some of my saddest  moments were brought about by "Just a dog".

In those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "Just a dog" provided comfort and purpose to overcome the day. 

If you, too, think it's "Just a dog", you will probably understand phrases like "Just a friend" or "Just a sunrise" or "Just a promise".

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy.

 "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.

Because of "Just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks, and look longingly into the future.

For me and people like me, it's not "Just a dog".

It's an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past,

 and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and 

the worries of the day. 

I hope that someday people can understand it's not "Just a dog." 

It's the thing that gives me humanity and keep me from being "Just a man" or "Just a woman".

So the next time you hear the phrase "Just a dog", Smile because they "Just don't understand"..

-Unknown Author