![[IMAGE]](dg_ln.gif)
Those first few weeks, you treated me well,
but, when I had to go out, you'd just yell
that it was up to the kids to let me outside,
when they did not, you paddled my hide!
I did what I could to make our bond strong,
but, being quite young, I did some things wrong.
When a month had passed, I heard you say,
"Boy, do I regret the day!"
A collar of steel you put on me
and chained me to the maple tree.
A shipping crate was my new home,
into yours again, I'd never roam.
As the years sped by, I longed for you
to talk to me like when I was new!
The kids put food almost in my dish
as I gazed at them and often wished
that I had done something to make you love me,
like I do you from this silent tree.
I've guarded the house and barked the alarm
when I thought that something could cause you harm.
The years have gone by lightning fast,
I lie here reflecting on my empty past.
I'm feeling my age, I think you can see
that I'm not the young dog that I used to be.
You're standing beside me, patting my head,
my heart is breaking, I'm feeling your dread.
Unlocking the chain that bound my lifetime,
I kiss your face for what's the last time.
We go out of the city where the air smells clan,
I really don't think you think you're mean.
As you open the door to set me free,
I wish you'd glance back and look at me!
I'd rather be with you, although you've strayed
from the one person I've lived to obey!
I want it to end by that tall, old tree,
not here, by myself, in the open country!
don't drive away with tears in your eyes!
Please take me to die 'neath the familiar skies!
Forgive me! I'm sorry! I'm scared, can't you see?
I loved you no matter how bad you'd treated me!
How could you leave me here on this road?
Isn't your guilt a heavy load?
You're driving away in your car all alone!
Returning to the only home I've known
without me! Your dog! Who gave you my years
on the end of a chain, pleading through tears!
