I found you when you were born.

I saw your little eyes, squinting at me across the room.

I chose you and you chose me.

We were friends for life.

I remember putting you in my shoe, just to be funny.

You quickly out-grew my shoe and the sweater I bought you.

You finally started barking, high-pitched and loud.

Sometimes it got old but I love you the same.

You were full grown and starting to make your place in this house.

You were a bully sometimes but you had the sweetest heart.

You laid with me in bed at night and we cuddled.

You were a restless sleeper like me.

Its funny just how much we were alike.

You were so funny.

You always knew just what to do to make me laugh.

The sadness of days couldn’t compare to how precious you were.

Your birthday was even close to mine, Nov. 7, 2007.

Today, Sept. 9, 2010, I came home to find out you weren’t here anymore.

I didn’t believe him when he said you were gone forever.

I ran to the place where he put you.

Denial was gone, and reality set in.

You were laying in the cold dirt, motionless.

My life suddenly crumbled as did the dirt over your grave.

I’m sorry I failed you, my friend.

I’m sorry I didn’t get to stay goodbye.

I’m sorry I didn’t say I love you.

You were my best friend and my “monkey.”

I’m not sure how I’m going to go on without you.

I wish I could see your face one more time.

I wish I could hear your bark one more time.

I wish I could cuddle with you in bed, just one more time.

If I just had one wish, I would be a better dad, friend.

You will always be in my heart O.P.

I love you!

Written by Garrett Hinson, 21, of Denham Springs, La.,

submitted by his grandfather Howell McManus of Natchez

Hinson is a juvenile diabetic who wrote this poem

after losing his dog