Kerry “Doc” Pardue

DOG DAYS AND DEMON TIME

I lie here awake next to you; it’s 12:30 a.m.
and wonder how you can rest so easily.
I try to tune into your breathing
and hope to catch its magic ride to slumber

I get up and put the dogs outside

I sit up in my favorite chair and soon fall into sleep
It’s 4:07 a.m. and I am awaken once again
Dreaming about being a soldier in a senseless war
Dogs want out again; at least I am not alone

This time I am on the couch
I sit here mind urging sleep to return
5:26 a.m. the sun will be up soon
Another night in 12,775 sleepless nights since I came home

6:15 a.m. grandchildren arrive
The dogs want to go back outside
At least they are consistent…
… But this is my dog sleep world