The Racing Snail

Did I ever tell you, dear child,
Of the world's greatest racing snail?
I took him to home from the wild --
At least I think he was a male.

I found him when I was a boy,
Perhaps then no older than you.
In him, I found my childhood joy --
I had faith in what he could do.

I taught him to follow my scent
As I ran outside in the grass.
He would come wherever I went
'Til he caught up with me at last.

He could go a half mile a day
And would follow me to my school.
It was only two blocks away --
He'd be home by ten as a rule.

But, alas, a child will grow up
And leave his playthings far behind.
When I was no longer a pup.
I went off, my future to find.

I traveled about the nation
Both north to south and east to west.
After years, I found my station
And settled down to do my best.

And here sat I just yesterday
And do you know what I did see?
That persistent snail came to say,
"Hey, there, do you remember me?"