A Dog upon a Chain

 Written for so so so so many reasons ...

A Dog upon a Chain

by Lyn Marinello

 

Here I am, the chained up dog, my yard’s grass is worn beneath.

I may bark and I may growl, but I rarely bare my teeth.

I am fiercely loyal; a staunch protector of my pack.

Seldom the aggressor, but when provoked, I will attack.

I will raise my hackles. I might race til the links may break.

My conviction to my owner is the only thing at stake.

I may occasionally get loose and wander from my domain,

But I will always come back home to the security of my chain.

I am often times permitted to sit upon the shaded deck,

Or offered up an outing, a companion on your trek.

I am fed enough to stay, scratched sporadically behind an ear.

I may seem mostly docile but am alert to those who near.

I exist on minimal praise; or a much appreciated treat.

I sit ready, tail a-wagging, dutifully at your feet.

I embrace my boundaries though they’re not always clear.

I may test my tether’s limits but my devotion is sincere.

I am eager to obey commands, though I scratch and sometimes dig.

I’ll bring back the entire branch when you’ve only thrown a twig.

I am at my most content with purpose unrestrained.

I am just a steadfast hound, tied up here, upon this chain.

Whatcha think?