Stature
Scottie dog on his walk
parading onto sidewalks of quiet drama
his bristling, buoyant hop
on three legs
while an old man, cane in hand, grasps the dog's leash
a life line between them
glimpse of resistance
measured movements
occasional threads of panic
to claim their space, the edges of a frame,
the lilt of living
others step the circle around them
quick glances to thaw cellphone attention
permitted entry into a private moment
that graces the pair
like stained glass light
strength can be a force greater than fear
that shapes the land they tread on
for an old man, cane weary, and his three legged dog
their return walk
mounted together
a noble bearing
through May's green door
that summons them forward
that marks time pressing,
to hold their footing
Poem written: May 16, 2022
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