Tribute To Bruce (Bruce was my St. Bernard and I will miss him #life died down, And Bruce's supple body turned stiff and stark. Now he lies straight and majestic in death, Leaving a track record of love, Far too difficult to break, A love no vessel can hold; Or be equated with what we feel. Speechless as I stand, Memories churn within. He came to us - too young to be weaned, A glossy puppy with gleaming eyes His large drooping ears, Slender waist and elongated frame, Well proclaimed his mixed breed aloud. So full of mischief; He capered and hopped, Like a new born calf; Always up on his heels. Sniffing with moist nose, He dug and dug, As if unearthing treasure, Buried deep beneath the soil. With alert vigil, he guarded our home, Barking at wonderers and driving rodents away. He expected nothing in turn but love, His loyalty as we deem was never servile, Never was he on chains to be hauled like cattle. Though he enjoyed sauntering through the courtyard, Giving company as we took our evening rounds. He gloated rubbing his body over our knee, Then sat content as our stroking fingers ran all around, Licking our feet and arms. What he conveyed in inarticulate words, Could be deciphered as 'I love you, love you true' Like the bouncing ball he often played with, Our hearts made to bounce up in love, And our hands fold in benison. For a comrade who departs, Valiant in #life and loyal to the core, Hoping to meet him anon on the far green meadows of bliss. Still wagging his tail, Declaring a bond, Too strong to be snapped or splintered. Bruce my dear, I love you.