Sometimes reality hits you right between the eyes. Things are what they might be, and we might as well like it. Because the alternative could be grim.

This poem is dedicated to my good friend, RD Larson

Ode to Marion 'Zippy' Riles
by
Carmen Ruggero


I was a very young and beautiful princess
In a far away land.
In my dreams, I was that.
I had riches: silver, and gold and such.
Suitors and lovers at my command,
Whose gallant rhymes spilled from their
Thirsty lips, hoping to win my hand.

But soon, daylight swallowed the night,
And what should wake me
From such imaginary, bliss.
Marion.... Zippy? I think... he said,
Or whimpered, something like that; I heard.

I opened my eyes,
He lay beside me,
His gaze sweetly swaddled mine
With tenderness.
His cute pink ears,
His breath so hot,
His tongue; soft and sweet against my cheek.

Dreamland faded
As I focused on his face,
And all my fortune, I did forsake.
Gold, silver, suitors, sweets, and flowers;
A dream for another day.

Because when castles in the sky
Come tumbling,
And alone I face my day,
There’s my dog, my faithful friend,
Just longing for a pat.

"Marion ‘Zippy’ Riles!" I said,
You silly little hound,
At last, reality sets in and
I know, my one and only
Loyal prince, you are!