Poem #39: In Memorium

Seventeen years ago we adopted 2 cats, Mork and Mindy. When Scott got his own place years back, he took Mindy along for company, so Scott was her master for her entire time with us. Mork passed away years ago, and this weekend, Mindy succumbed to her illness. Below are a recent photo of Mindy taken at Scott and Sarah's house, and following that, a poem I wrote years ago after seeing Mindy in one of her favorite sleeping positions -- on her back with her belly exposed to the world -- something few animals feel safe enough to do.

Mindy the Cat

Furry wrestler self-pinned on the carpet,
chalky bulbous belly aimed ceilingward,
legs splayed to the four winds,
eyes and expression wistful of a hand's petting.
Pure innocence, all trusting, nonchalant,
the ultimate vulnerability with
vital organs laid bare for caress,
or attack.

How few adults would dare
thus expose self to
environment,
peers,
colleagues,
friends,
lovers,
family,
life?