The Ache

Writing as a step towards healing

There is an ache
that comes from 
a dog mom’s
heart – equal parts
helplessness, 
fear and rage.

It’s just a bone as
you scream “NOOO”, 
take action as a mother
saving her baby.

I don’t know what
is worse, watching 
the one losing or
rewatching over and
over, like waves
that leave me
struggling for air.

I praise the vets,
assess my wounds
and sit with an ache
that this momma’s
heart will never forget.

In the quiet,
I pick up my pen,
another tear falls.