Student Publishing Program ::

Abby Shenker

Dog Kisses

You, a wide and flat tongue with little black patches

Are the expression of a dog’s love,

And a dog’s excitement,

And her loyalty,

And her strength.

When I was sailing down the street on my first bike

She was galloping along side, through the canyons of snow.

You were a flag, flapping proudly in the wind.

When the door flew open, that beast flew out. She bolted to the end of the driveway

Then paused

To look over her shoulder- making sure that I pursued.

She took a few more playful strides before letting me grasp her collar.

Your rough, wet face greeted me as a slobbery kiss.

When my elderly puppy was laying limp

Tubes coming in and going out of her

She does not lift her head. I bend down, putting my face next to hers.

With all that she has, she smacks her mouth- like a wash cloth

Dipped in warm water, you wiped the dried tears from my cheeks.

Limping slowly to the car, you emerge from your wet cave

Entirely, and wave bravely in the breeze.

[TABLE OF CONTENTS, LHS CLASS OF 2013 EDITION]