It Rained Cats and Dogs

On some day, In this sub-Himalayan terrain, Where I happen to live—by chance, Somewhere, incidentally, not quite far from the place Where Ruskin Bond lives—by choice, It rained cats and dogs. Idling in the weather, I couldn’t help thinking …well… of cats and dogs. Come to think of it, Between the two species I should prefer the cat. And for quite valid reasons: For one thing, a cat can Clean herself up and her kittens; The dog, on the other hand, Would wait for you to do all that. Otherwise, the canine will, in “as-is”- condition, Prefer to stink, Which you wouldn’t prefer, I think. Even religion notes the relationship Of the mother’s exemplary care Of the kitten and the little one’s implicit trust, Known as marjara-nyaya, Similar to eklektos. For another, a domestic cat would eat in public And mate in private. But the dog does exactly the opposite! With children and their peers around, Of varying ages, in a household You wouldn’t like this to happen. It would invite giggles, Curious questions on And explanations of Reproduction and what not. Last but not least, Once, when we happened to live Down in the south, A cat at home was going to litter. She quietly came up to me, Gently held my hand between her teeth, And took me to the spot. I cherish the moment. Well, it rained cats and dogs! — Ram, R. V.