Things I'Ve Learned From My Cat

I have a dear old cat named Simba who is wise beyond his years.
He likes to lounge upon my lap and have me scratch his ears!
His soothing purr relaxes me and calms the rhythm of my heart,
But more than that he shares subtle hints that keep me from falling apart!

He's taught me to be satisfied with what I have and not to fret.
He doesn't ask much of me - just food and drink and his needs are met.
Simba has also taught me to set aside time to muse and contemplate,
To take an occasional nap, be of good cheer and to watch my weight!

I've learned from him the virtue of patience (Lord knows I need more of that),
As for hours he stalks unwary prey and pounces upon it in nothing flat!
This inscrutable pal has shown me the importance of perseverance.
His ritual laves have made me conscious of maintaining my own appearance!

'Tis well known that cats are curious and he has honed my curiosity,
That I might apply myself to meet life's challenges with virtuosity!
Now, if only he would share with me the secret of how he survives,
That mysterious matter of reincarnation so that I can enjoy nine lives!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
© All Rights Reserved
Copyright © | Year Posted 2011

Poem

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Mister Roboto Avatar
March 5, 2011 at 11:13 AM
I enjoyed your description of cats. I myself am not much of a cat person as I think they act like they are too good to be a pet and somewhat snobby. However, you depiction is accurate. I also really like the last lines.
Pettit Avatar
March 2, 2011 at 10:48 PM
In the opening scenes of "The Godfather", Marlon Brando had a cat on his lap as he listened to the undertaker describing his story. You have described your cat very well with these words and rhyme. Great job, Bob
Kendrick Avatar
March 2, 2011 at 5:12 PM
Would be nice to have longevity if we could only be able to carry forward things learned..Enjoyed your thoughts about cats and life..Sara
Sweetheart Avatar
March 2, 2011 at 4:32 PM
Well I am making this one a new fav Bob because I have my two cats and can really relate to this wonderful write .. cats teach many things.. simplicity of life and satisfaction of soul.. amazing my friend.. and your rhyme is impeccable for sure luv..
Devonshire Avatar
March 2, 2011 at 3:59 PM
You know, Bob, we really can learn a lot by watching animal behavior. Cats are a special species. Fast, entertaining, patient and affectionate. Who could ask for more? Love your poem! Love the author too. Carolyn
George   Avatar
March 1, 2011 at 2:45 PM
They truly are magical creatures. This poem is also magical. Thank you for sharing, Robert. Lainie
Situation Avatar
March 1, 2011 at 11:30 AM
what a wonderfull observation in lessons learned from a cat. and a wonderful job in rhyming. T. S.
Taylor Avatar
March 1, 2011 at 7:03 AM
I was always a "Dog" guy, Sarge. Never cared much for cats until "Princess" came along. She won my heart and was with us for fourteen years. Been gone two years now but I still miss her. Still prefer dogs but now I also like cats. Awesome piece, my friend. Enjoyed. Have a great week. Thanks for your kind words. Ralphie
Wilson Avatar
March 1, 2011 at 3:25 AM
Just wonderful and so right on about kitties which I have two of.They are Kismet(Kizzie) and Layla and they are such a joy.Well done! love,Deb
Konos Avatar
February 28, 2011 at 6:52 PM
This is so adorable that I don't know how the Air Force can get along without you. I'm sure you did your job as grand as you wrote this poem. Kiss Simba for me.
Dufresne Avatar
February 28, 2011 at 6:30 PM
excellent poem on the power of the puddy cat. As you may recall I too have a cat named Simba. Amazing to study these animals as you;ve so clearly shown. We learn much about them and ourselves. Awesome write. Oh yeah.... Simba's full name is Simba Callica Simbala. She's a calico. heh heh. Enjoyed your write Bob. Smooth and natural with nice clean rhyming.
Roberts Avatar
February 28, 2011 at 6:17 PM
lovely poem Bob, much enjoyed
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