nestled in the black chair

the two of you, nestled in the black chair
the two of you, up at 4 AM, out into the yard
he, eager to inhale his first morning smoke
you, eager to perform your morning ritual

it was uncanny how the little furry one
sought out the tall strong one and,
having secured his faithfulness,
took over his heart and his lap

you didn't hesitate when you saw him
even though you were barely a handful and
were uncertain of the world around you
you saw him and didn't consider anything else

how is it, you knew he loved you instantly
how is it, you knew it was safe to need him
you, an abandoned kitten, knew without doubt
what took me thirty-five years to believe

27 October 2004