MY BEST FRIEND, CORA

At age eighteen, went off to war
with no friends or family;
no comfort of a loved one
would be right there for me.

And than one day an angel came,
an angel in disguise.
She had four legs, deep brown eyes,
and a tail that wagged with pride.

We didn't speak the same language,
but we always understood,
by looks and body gestures
we formed a Brotherhood.

You didn't work for money,
only a scrap or two for pay.
It didn't seem to matter;
you'd show up every day.

You led us through the jungle
searching for the VC traps;
knowing that the enemy
was right there on our tracks.

Your loyalty immeasurable,
your love for us was true.
Our very lives depended on
the courage showed by you.

When the war was over
and the time came for us to leave,
they told me you were property
and could not come home with me.

I held you in my arms so tight
and prayed this not to be.
I vowed to you that day my friend;
that one day we would meet.

So wait there my sweet Cora,
and guard the Pearly Gates.
One day I'll be there with you
and for eternity we'll be mates.

©Copyright November 23, 2005 by Maureen A. Brigante

Cora - October 14, 2001