Why The Poor Have Pets

At the foot of the bed
there is Cat

unless she is in the closet

or on the dresser
or on top of the 

refrigerator

Her predictability is 
unpredictable
We know her spots but not
her schedule

But the first place to look
is always the foot of the bed

Careful not to kick her
while we sleep
while she sleeps
for she will cut anyone
who forgets her
or takes her for granted

She’s like nearly everything else
in this life right now
A dark and warm presence
that is capable of wounding
and comforting
without giving warning
that either is about to happen

At the foot of the bed
a small warrior
a soft troublemaker
best little metaphor
for this freefall life

I love to hear her purr