The Meaning of Rescue
‘Baggage’
By Evelyn Colbath
Now that I’m home, bathed, settled and fed,
All nicely tucked in my new warm bed,
I’d like to open my baggageLest I forget.There’s so much to carry,
So much to regret. Hmmm–yes, there it is, right on the top. Let’s unpack Loneliness, Heartache and Loss. And there by my leash hides Fear and Shame. As I look on these things I tried so hard to leave, I still have to unpack my baggage called Pain. I loved them, the others, the ones who left me. But I wasn’t good enough, for they didn’t want me. Will you add to my baggage? Will you help me unpack? Or will you just look at my things And take me right back? Do you have the time to help me unpack? To put away my baggage, To never repack? I pray that you do-I’m so tired, you see. But I DO come with baggage.
Will you still want me?
This beautiful poem was written in memory of Jessie, a Scottish Terrier. She was born into the tragic conditions of a puppy mill; abused, but rescued to live out her life in a loving, ‘forever’ home before she passed on to the Rainbow Bridge. Thank you, Evelyn