Shining like a super-nova even on your darkest day;


ravaged by tumors but not afraid of the dark,


you take that painful walk to quench your thirst.


Vigilo et spero! - I keep awake and I am hopeful!


Later that night, just shy of the bewitching hour,


(apropos for my beloved black-furred familiar),


you slowly close your yellow eyes and fall into eternal sleep.


I pray there is a heaven. I admit I do not know if God created animals


or if animals created God, but I do know there is a God.


The beauty in your face proves there is a God.


You have the gentlest soul I have ever known.


Dear God, you lay there as beautiful as the day you were born


just seventeen years ago. You've had nine lifetimes of remarkable joy,


but very little sorrow. Please be there when it is my turn to go.


I can't hardly wait to see you again, my friend.

10/26/2009