What a puppy understands

She's small and cute but underfoot.

She won't come when I call.

She gnaws and chews my finest shoes

and piddles in the hall.

 

She finds disguise in umber eyes

so innocently gazing,

then howls at night with all her might

until my voice is raising.

 

But truth be told, although I scold

with reprimands unbending,

she cocks her head at what I've said

as if uncomprehending.

 

Yet when I doubt what life's about

and question all I've known;

and when my heart has come apart,

and when I cry alone,

 

she licks my tear and snuggles near,

her head beneath my hands.

To my surprise, I realize

she truly understands.

 

(Eric R. Ode)