Best Bud

I wrote this poem to honor Riley, my best bud and constant companion for the last twelve years. He wasn’t just a pet, he was family, a presence woven into every part of my daily life. We went on so many adventures together, from early morning walks to lazy afternoons, to moments where it felt like it was just us against the rest of the world.

Losing him has been one of the hardest things I’ve faced. The silence in the house feels unfamiliar. I catch myself listening for the soft patter of his paws behind me or expecting him to wander over for face rubs, as he always did. Even now, I find myself turning to look for him out of habit.

This poem came from that ache, the hollow space he once filled so effortlessly. But writing it also allowed me to sit with the love, not just the loss. Riley was there for me through so many difficult moments, always with the quiet reassurance that everything would be okay. I loved him deeply, and I always will.

He may no longer be by my side, but he’ll furever be a part of my heart.

This poem is for him.