Tribute Poem to Ozzie – I didn’t Know

I Didn’t Know

In memory of Ozzie

I didn’t know that starry night, when I first met you,
that one day you would shatter my heart.
I didn’t know that starry night
that one day you would steal my heart.
I didn’t know, back on that starry night,
that one day you would bring my childhood dream to life.

I didn’t know, the first time I took your reins,
that one day you would be mine.
I didn’t know all this —
until it was time.

I didn’t know six years would pass,
not long after that first starry night.
I didn’t know I would see your name again,
and feel that sudden start —
until your name appeared
in an advert from the past.

I didn’t know a bond would bloom
beneath those quiet, moonlit skies,
as I whispered soft goodnights.
You rested your head upon my lap
whilst you drifted off to dream.

I didn’t know, on that fateful day,
under skies so heavy and grey,
that today would be your very last day.
I didn’t know, as you fell beneath me,
that that was truly that.
I didn’t know, as I cried your name out in pain,
that your silence would echo through all my days.

I didn’t know then —
but I know now:
my heart will forever be entwined with yours.

© Sandra Lynne Mitchell