you with your nine lives
me having passed most of mine
heedlessly. Both ends of the burnt candle
vaulting the traces for the sake of kicks
a fool with flames, coupling the combustible
dicing danger with a careless toss
a dangle just over the precipice
though my feet never far above ground
and now you with your nine lives
and high altitudes; those impossible leaps
the curtain clambers, tree scrambles
double jeopardy of human highways
and poison wrapped as temptation
you with your nine lives
may you live to see them all

with this evocative photo by Josephine, Carrie gives us a prompt to fire up the 196th Sunday Muse
Not every day a poem makes me cry .. literally. Yours has. And I think you, it was cathartic.
happy to hear it moved you Helen – and thank you
Sorry, “thank” XX
Some powerful thoughts to ponder here. As Helen said it is truly cathartic. This is beautiful Laura.
and a very moving photo you gave us to move our Muses Carrie x
You drew on our heartstrings!
and pulled you in – thanks Bev
So powerlful, and such a beautiful wish.
old wishes for young shoulders
This is amazing! A fantastic take on mortality in a beautifully poetic way. Loving the way this feels like a conversation with the beloved cat.
yes you picked up on the underlying theme where old and young intersect – that kitten looks like its listening!
Love how the picture kindles such deep and beautiful lines.
thank you Sumana – could not help but be touched
May we all. (K)
indeed!
Aw, I especially love your closing line.
thank you Sherry
Cats are lithe and limber, those vertical leaps impress every time. Decrepit aged can choose two paths in response as they observe the acrobatics (maybe the double jeopardy you mention?), resentment or enjoyment. I’m happy this observer chose the latter.
the old man’s concerns for the kitten contrast with his own heedlessness
That is such a sweet and moving photo and yet your words amplify those feelings…
thank you Marina – I thought you (and Hera) might appreciate this pet talk!!
I appreciate and admire all your creative expressions. …Hera too! 😉
mwah! x
Mwah back! xoxo
An oldie has many stories to tell. A meowing listening ear. Luv the conversation Laura. Happy Sunday
Much love…
thank you Gillena
A perfect homage to cats indeed!
and a hope for a fulfilled little life
Hope he loves all nine!