“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures;

They give unconditional love.

For me they are the role model for being alive.” 

Gilda Radner

He was a gigantic old brown dog

Part Chow and maybe St. Bernard

And he had the sweetest disposition

Even though Katrina had hit him hard

He had suffered debilitating head trauma

The medical team had to remove one eye

And every time I looked at this injured dog

I nearly broke down and often wanted to cry

He was being housed in a small cage

In the Mash Unit during his recovery

And I found myself visiting every night

This lovable mutt had really gotten to me

Since the medical staff was always extremely busy

They asked volunteers to walk these dogs every night

And I always somehow found myself standing by his cage

Before taking One Eyed Jack out for a walk in the moonlight

He and I would pleasantly wander around the rescue camp

He was extremely appreciative and so very well behaved

And I think his massive injuries bothered me more than him

He is truly one of the bravest souls who face life so unafraid

And each and every night after our leisurely stroll

When I would carefully place him back inside his pen

He would reward me with very affectionate facial kisses

Gentle One Eyed Jack would kiss me over and over again

I truly miss old One Eyed Jack these days and nights

Since he taught me a most valuable lesson about living

No matter how bad we think that life has been treating us

To others more in need our compassion we should be giving

©2006, Ed Kostro

Heading back south again

See you all on my return

Many animals still need help

And to see Jack again I yearn