His large head peaked around the door

When I was in the bedroom, retrieving stuff from the closet where it was stored

I pulled that backpack from the shelf

Caught a glimpse in the mirror as I did so

I didn’t recognize myself

I dusted off that backpack from years ago

It still had a plane ticket and cruise tag on it

Charlotte, San Juan Puerto Rico

This time to Richmond, just overnight

His brown eyes, glistening, caught my sight

He stomped his paws while I threw clothes into the bag

He whimpered, his cry

That face was sad

I went to the living room and grabbed my shoes

Then into the bathroom for my toothbrush too

He followed me around

I told him I’d be home the next day

Tried not to let my tears give way

I planted my lips on his snout

The dog sitter came in as I went out

As I drove away he was in the window

Watching me go

My heart ached all night

I ate Salisbury steak at a restaurant

No one to share it with

My stomach was full but my spirit was gaunt

No buddy beside me

But the next morning I ran like lightning

Ran that race I trained all year for

Then sped home to something I love even more

Golden locks, big brown eyes, four floppy paws

Love and devotion that catches all my falls

No one ever so happy to see me

When I got home I told the pup to believe me

“No more backpacks,” I told him

He danced with me

I brushed his fur with my hand

Threw the backpack away

In the house we stayed

It was golden

How is it that trips to old places are now like revisiting high school?
I read it’s not good to question why the former days were better than these

Is everyone fooled?

Maybe it’s not a mystery

Don’t give in to consumerism’s nag

The hook is for the bag

Sometimes all you want is in front of you