Little Boy From the Closet (Survivor the Cat)

What a surprise to find you
born upon the soft, white belly of your mama
suckling, happily away;
two days beyond three siblings,
that never took a breath.
A fourth born with you,
went crying to an endless sleep.

You are “Survivor”
an aptly chosen name.

Your boldness brings worry to my heart
on these cold, wet nights
you choose to roam.
I wait on, hoping
you’ll come home
unscathed, un-muddy
while purring out your love.

I want you to be free…yet,
around with me
for a long time.
Can’t keep you in; keep you down.
Creatures of open fields
need to run the grass
feel the wind and claw at trees.

I await your return
Survivor…
this cold, wet night;
wanting to feel you
slip under the covers
purr at my side…under my arm
as usual…