written for my father from his long time companion and friend, Keicho his beloved cat |
Cry For Me I have something important to share with you. I’d like to write It myself, but you know I don’t know how to. Of all the gifts you’ve given me, Your gift of words, I felt I did not need. Knowing me the way you do, You’d know I only paid attention when I wanted to. How was I to foresee the importance of sending a message after I leave. I never thought of leaving you. I never thought I’d bid you ado. Why would thoughts of doom and fear flow through me, When in your heart I was so dear. As your pet, I’d found the perfect place To live my life with such style and grace. Unconditionally , I ruled your home. The entire house was mine to roam. Yes, I was a little complicated at times, Still, never a negative thought in you eyes. I was perfect, as we both know. My desires, my demands, You met like my hero. Remember the time I guarded my room through out the night, While holding your granddaughter hostage rattled with fright? You might not know how much I enjoyed that right. Truth be told, I believe you knew, I really liked my cat and mouse games. And as my true hero, you defended me just the same. In your eyes, I did no wrong When in reality, most mischief was a test of your heart, You were so strong. Never a day, a doubt where I belonged. Another cat you did not wish, those were your very words When my predecessor ceased to exist. You let me in, Still Bumper and others I did not replace. I was different. Into your home, into your space, I was special too, I made my own place. For my mother, I was meant. To bring her company was the intent. My mother so loving, I knew no resent. When at first sight, we both knew I was your cat for the rest of my lie. Don’t get me wrong, I love my mother dearly, It wasn’t her fault that daddy’s girl was my destiny, clearly . I lived the life of a princess, a baby, even a Queen my death, as you know for us all was foreseen. I find no fault in your grief. Without it, I’d be dismayed. As royalty, I’d have it no other way. Of course you’ll feel my absence, you’ll shed a tear, even wonder what’s left in your life. How could you not, I was your second wife. I shared your bed, your pillow, your couch. I even punished you when I was being a grouch. The message I feel so desperate to leave, I asked your daughter to write for me. She has your gift and skill, To put down the words, I so deeply feel. I love you with all my heart. I’ve not left you, I won’t ever be far. Although you’ll never replace me, I want you to remember the others in need. Like me, there are others on earth in need of love, That feeling of worth. A day will come, you will see, Some how, it has to be, Another feline will enter your life You‘ll fight it, I know, but only for a short time. I beg of you not to forget, that before me You wanted no more pets. Your gift from our Great Lord, I am so very sure Is to be a guardian of the “Meows” covered in fur. A dog man, you are not. Obviously, one that knows The felines can not be forgot. So mourn for me my dearest friend. But not for long this is not the end. As I enter those pearly gates, I’ll find new friends there in wait. Other’s who’ve been delighted to be a sparkle in your eyes. Other’s who’ve known the joy of living in your life. As I play in Heaven, without any pain. A frisky kitten, I feel like again. I wonder now, how many I will greet. The special ones, those that you have yet to meet. In closing I say, “Cry for me“. But, not for long. You’ve have things to do, you have to move on. When you think of me from here on out, know that I’ve left you my message To leave no doubt. Know that your devotion to me was so very clear, I return it to you as I watch you from here. All my Love, Keicho |