Having grown up together, I still have
So many indelible emblems of your existence.
Long afternoons in the mirror
Showcase the scar you gave me on my left cheek, its permanence retained..

Do you remember when Doris did that inside job?
You bolted to alert the Rock at the surgery,
Fearless of long-fingered goons whose only talent is to rob.
Oh, but you were too wise for trickery!

I miss going to the public pool with you.
You dipped in,
Driving everyone out,
Including all the rabid dogs on two legs – thank goodness.
Can you remember? Because I cannot forget.

I remember when I found you in the rain,
Soaked and motionless.
“What’s wrong with him?” the question reverberated.
“Flash is sick.” I never heard more than this.

Off you went to the vet,
Whilst we all waited anxiously on further word.
We lost the most loyal member of our family sestet
To leukemia as told to us by death’s bird.

We buried you.
I wept, but never visited your grave.
Bark for me, Flash – I’ll run to find you.