The Secret to Rubber-Soled Shoes

The Secret to Rubber-Soled Shoes

The secret to rubber-soled shoes
is that they are often imbued 
with the ghosts of deceased dogs,
dogs who were loyal and eager to serve,
dogs who want to cradle the foot 
of a beloved pack member
protecting you from 
gravel-strewn trails
and unyielding cement floors,
dogs who want to be there for you, 
who want to share your burdens,

dogs, who—in their previous forms—
were frisky, hairy, sensual creatures,
animals who lived for a good, strong
stench filling their sinuses
and throats.  Is it any wonder
their spirits gravitate
to your shoes?  They’re happy there
for a while, immersed
in the pungent scent
of your sweaty feet

and you are inexplicably
happy too, with a ghost dog
cushioning your steps
as you climb the stairs
at home or work,
or when you hike 
along a sun-dappled
riverside trail
with raucous friends,
or creep slowly
into a shady blue glade
for a few moments
of quiet.


Photo by Eduardo Arcos on Unsplash