One Good Neighbor

He came night after night. I don’t know how long he favored me in such an appreciative manner, but I was most pleased when I realized it. We had moved back into a property that had been rented out for nearly fifteen years. The clean-up was one tough job because the backyard was filled with more than a few of 'this, that, or the other' that had to be trashed. So, when my neighborly friend was spotted patrolling my yard one night, I was more than elated and grateful to see him. He took the same route each night, and we did make eye contact. But I purposely refused to formally meet him, because I did not want to become close to him. So, I never bothered to offer him food or drink. For reasons I will never know, he ceased to make his rounds. During the tenure of that treasured neighbor, the rodents disappeared. But I’m very disappointed with myself for keeping a wall between us. He deserved better. Sometimes I feel sad because comparatively, I gave him so little. But I must say that I have always been very appreciative of the kindness he shared with me. I shall never forget the dedication with which the neighborly cat donated his time and served me so faithfully. 4thPSCtest061821