One by One

One by one, they pass by my cage
Too old, too worn, too broken, they say
Way past his time, he can't run and play
They shake their heads and go on their way

A little old man, arthritic and sore
It seems that I am wanted no more
I once had a home, I once had a bed
A place that was warm, and where I was fed

Now my muzzle is grey, and my eyes slowly fail
Who wants a dog so old and so frail?
My family decided I didn't belong
I got in their way, my attitude wrong

Now I sit in this kennel, where day after day
The younger ones are chosen and taken away
When I had come to the end of my rope
You saw my face and again I knew hope

You saw past the grey, the legs wobbly with age
And felt I deserved life beyond this cage
You took me home, gave me food and a bed
You gently stroked my poor tired head

We snuggle and play, you talk to me low
You love me so dearly, and make sure I know
Although I have lived most of my life with another
You outshine them with a love so much stronger

I promise to return all the love I can give
To you my dear friend, as long as I live
I may be with you for a week, or for years
We will share many smiles, and a few tears

When the time comes, that God deems I must leave
I know you will cry and your heart it will grieve
When I arrive at the Bridge all brand new
My thoughts and my heart will still be with you

And I will brag to all who will hear
Of the person who made my last days so dear

Author Unknown