IN DEFENSE OF MY CAT

He's a living thing

I have to care for.

In times of chaos

I know I have some order

Because the cat

Has a schedule.

He needs food

At certain intervals.

He has an imposed curfew now--

9 o'clock.

Outside he's a beast

to the birds and neighbors.

Inside he's the only lover I've got.

Thousands of years ago

His ancestors were worshiped

And he's never forgotten it.

Somehow I know, this little stray cat

With the big gold eyes

Was sent here to me.                                    6-16-03