"I Love Shaggy Dogs" by Maura Quinn

He was a shaggy dog sort of fellow,
Unassuming and approachable;
Genuinely kind, curious and playful.
But there was more than just a shaggy surface.
There were levels of depth and care
Built on life’s sometimes
Deafening carelessness.
Yet he stands ready for life,
Curious and eager to see what it holds.
Caring, and carrying a depth of empathy
Born of experience,
Ready to share sorrows and joy
As they are revealed.
Thrilled to be alive.