The Power of the Cat

There is sorrow enough in the natural way From men and women to fill our day; Why do we always arrange for more? Brothers and sisters, I beg you beware Of giving your heart to a cat to tear. Buy a kittie and your money will buy Love unflinching that cannot lie-- Perfect passion and worship fed By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head. Nevertheless it is hardly fair To risk your heart to a cat to tear. When the fourteen years which Nature permits Are closing in asthma, or tumour or fits, And the vet's unspoken prescription runs To lethal chambers or loaded guns, Then you will find--it's your own affair-- But...you've given your heart to a cat to tear. When the body that lived at your single will, When its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!) When the spirit that answered your every mood Is gone--wherever it goes--for good, You will discover how much you care, And will give your heart to a cat to tear.