He stood there, stoic
uniform clean and tidy
badge shiny, reflecting the light
of the cameras
listening carefully as his partner
talked about his contributions
to safety
to peace
to relations with the community.

The joy he took in his work
The pride he had after a job well done
It wasn’t for the pay
It wasn’t for the accolades
It wasn’t for the publicity

I watched the ceremony,
and damn if I didn’t bawl

(I was banned from watching Lassie as
a child – crying over TV dogs was not a family value)

at the selflessness
of the officer
and his dedication to our safety
and all for a little piece of liver
or a tennis ball.

We don’t deserve dogs.