BEETHOVEN’S LAST HOURS
By Dan Atcheson (8/21/01)
I still can grow numb when I think of that night
But you were suffering, and I knew it was time
To you it was just a car ride with Dad
You didn’t know it would be your last
I pet you and talked as we drove to the vet
But you couldn’t hear me; you old ears were deaf
I talked of the good times and friendship we’d known
Of love that we’d shared in our warm little home
You tried so hard to show you were well
But you couldn’t fool me; your act didn’t sell
The doctor inquired, “Would you like some more time?”
“No! Get it done, or I’ll change my mind!”
I held your head and kissed your sweet face
While the needle’s pink venom ran through your veins
I cried as I told you that it was okay
I felt your last breath as your life slipped away
Wrapped in a blanket I drove you back home
I pet your still body, as mine became numb
Like a big baby, asleep in my arms
I carried you out to your grave in the yard
Gently I covered and concealed you with earth
While holding back tears; God knew how it hurt
When it was over, the funeral complete
I fell to my knees and began to weep
When I had no more tears left to cry
I lifted my eyes and looked toward the sky
I whispered a prayer thanking God for the years
He’d loaned you to me and good times that we’d shared
Deep in my heart I know you’re alive
You’ve simply journeyed to the “other side”
Crossing a bridge to heaven beyond
Passing from my loving arms into God’s
| Dan Atcheson |