Do you always remember every anniversary?

Question

The flame was barely

struck, second-hand

match smoke still

in the air

and he lit the last one

with a bent smile

and a click of the safety

with a blind shot

to the head

he turned towards the worn spade

paused at the oak

and carved the dog’s name

in the branch

before putting

the old boy

to rest.

Answer 1

Laid to rest 5 so far.  Never gets easier, even with a Vet's needle.

Answer 2

Earlier this spring I laid my sweet Jack's ashes under the jasmine in the back yard.  Best dog I ever had. A well written poem...

Answer 3

Nope, I'm terrible with dates. Lovely poem dear boy. LOL

Answer 4

This is so sad. Yes, I remember losing pets and loved ones all the time. The memories are always bittersweet.  

Answer 5

Yes, I have the cremains of 4 past dogs, waiting for mine to join them as we are released together down the Verde River.

ma

Answer 6

I have to work hard to forget anniversaries. I've learned over the years that nobody appreciates my remembering anything special.

God bless you and your dog.

Answer 7

I do remember that one. There were a few canine tributes that day. I've still left Rusty laying there, uncovered, unfinished...

Answer 8

I doubt I will forget,even though I want to,the day my Dusty dog left,she's in doggy heaven now.:""(

Answer 9

no, i never forget.

Answer 10

Unfortunately, there's more sad anniversaries with each passing season.

Answer 11

Darn Buk, I need a beer now. My memory could be better

Answer 12

That's sweet Buk.

I've never buried a dog, but this poem was as if I had.

Answer 13

i wish i hadn't read this one.

Answer 14

I've had to put a few dogs to rest that way,last thing they saw was a nice piece of fresh meat before the end of their misery.A cougar got my last dog though,he was a good old boy chasin after that big cat being 12 years old and all.

Answer 15

sad poem. yes i do remember those anniversaries

Answer 16

A vivid description of a moment of heartbreak, made more poignant because the narrator had to do the deed. You have touched me deeply here and I am sure, others as well.

In general, I like the way you describe the world in a seemingly casual manner, without openly expressing angst. This adds an ironic twist to your poetry and strengthens it as well.

Answer 17

Oh yes

I remember birthdays too.

Today is Gene Simmons' birthday.

Also Rob Halford & Vivian Campbell

Answer 18

The circle of life.  Sadly it has a much smaller diameter for some of our friends than for some of our relatives.

Answer 19

hmmmm