Friends

“Hagen,” I called out for the millionth time, “Hagen where are you?” I could barely repress a sob from escaping my throat. I felt a warm weight on my tiny shoulders. I turn to gaze into the deep brown pools that are the eyes of my father. “Katie,” he said softly, “He’s gone, he’s not coming back.” At that point hundreds of “what if’s” popped into my mind. What if he comes back and I’m not waiting for him? What if he was caught by the puppy police? What if…what if. “Dad, please. Just a little bit longer.” I begged, fresh tears beginning to pool in my eyes. He gave my shoulder a gentle squeeze before grudgingly nodding his approval. As we walked around the block calling out his name and bribes of treats I remembered all the good times we had together. Taking walks around the block together, me a frightened child and he my guardian. Sitting on the front lawn, his shiny black coat soaking in the sun. I can still feel his hot breath on my face as he panted beside me. A single tear escapes from the corner of my eye as we finally reach home, an empty collar clutched in my hand. Good friends come and go but memories like those last forever.

The Fires

When the fire first started my thoughts instantly went to my books. Most were common fairy tales but several were “priceless” manuscripts from people long dead. I rushed from my room to the library just across the hall, flames singeing my pajamas and smoke filling my lungs. I couldn’t save all of them, and the thought tugged at my soul. I looked to the center bookshelf which was already in the process of being consumed by the flames. I braced myself before thrusting my hands into the growing inferno. I pulled out a single book and clutched it to my chest, its faded red cover smoldering slightly. I curled my arms around it, protecting it from any more damage and sprinted for the front door. The door knob was glowing faintly in the heat so I threw all of my weight onto the door. It fell forwards with an ear-splitting crack. I quickly picked myself and my treasure off of the ground and ran towards the street where firemen already stood, sending a stream of water at my home. I steadied myself on the fire engine before gingerly opening my book. I flipped through pages of faded photographs of my family. Tension drained out of my body at the sight of my saved memories, the last gift from my mother. 

Wise Old Eyes

I see the world pass by through my wise old eyes,

I’ve seen the forests recede,

And the caribou stampede.

I’ve seen the mighty bears migrate north

And have followed the path that they set forth.

As the humans expand, we are forced to compact.

I’ve seen it all through my wise old eyes,

I’ve seen the eagles soar, and the badgers crawl,

From big to small,

 I’ve seen it all,  

Through my wise old eyes.