The Loss of a Loved One

Yesterday was a difficult day. Our daughter called us early. She was in tears. Her cat, Jack, had been hit by a car. Monica's husband found him outside in the street. They buried him in the back yard with his favorite toy and blanket. They plan to plant a tree in memory of him, perhaps a lilac.

Now some people feel that mourning the passing of an animal is foolish. But those of us who love animals and have known them as a part of the family know better. The mourning process is just as it would be at the loss of a human member of the family.

AN ODE TO JACK

He walked on great velvet paws with a grandeur all his own
No one doubted his destination nor the purpose of it
Jack's eyes shone with a depth of knowing beyond this world
As he surveyed his kingdom all about him

His purr was unique, deep and growly like a tiger
His voice called to all with a royal kind of roar
His ripply, rolly tummy joyously announced his wealth
Of love and good times and long langurous naps

Jack will be missed by all those who knew and loved him
No other feline could take his special place
He forever will be remembered
For the playful little kitten who became a lasting friend