Dog Greeting Owner

6:00 PM. I arrive at my apartment. My dog already knows I am there; he can hear my footsteps in the stairwell. He loses control of his emotions. All he can provide is a pathetic whine. He is thrilled to see me. His tags ring like a peal of bells announcing a royal return. He was so lonely. I, too, am relieved to be home. It was a long day at the library. My backpack drops like a sack of flour. He places his paws as high as he can reach on my thighs. He had spent so much time alone. What a relief to see my face! I had worked so hard at my studies. What bliss to come home! The two reinforce each other--loneliness and bliss, anxiety and relief. A bittersweet nightly ritual.