Sissan

You were a constant. I could always tell you my secrets. As I grew up you were always there. Every day when I came home from school you'd be standing behind the door wagging your docked tail. When I was tiny you were massive as a bear but I still walked you proudly down the street. You weren't going anywhere. You were my bear and you were always there to lend an ear when I had stories I needed to read to you from books which words I couldn't understand yet. Every morning I greeted you when I came down the stairs and every evening I kissed you good night on top of your head. You were there when the girls were mean at school or when the boys bullied. I could always come home and bury my face in your black fur and you'd understand that for now we just needed to sit and be sad for a while. You meant home, safety and love. You were so loved, Sissan. You were reserved and your own but you still managed to win hearts despite your big features. I grew older and you grew old. Walks hurt more and you needed more time to rest in front of the fire place. Your fur got thinner and grey hairs appeared on your face. A grey shadow laid over your eyes and one day mum found you lying on your blanket and you refused to get up. You were tired. And it was time. I was picked up from school and we rushed home. I was crying non-stop but I got to say goodbye to you. We all did. I kissed you goodnight and the purple liquid filled your heart and eventually made it stop. You lived in love and you died with love. You were my childhood. Thank you for being my wonderful dog, Sissan.