Farewell, beloved friend, and thank you for everything.
For making me vulnerable and undeniably human
For your acceptance, admiration, and awe
For teaching me that who WE are is constantly redefined.
– that cat claws are sharp
– that cat teeth are sharp
– that cat tongues are rough
But our hearts and minds are much alike.

Though your coughing had me calling you Smeagol
And Grievous the Cat (remnants of your early treachery)
We bonded with mutual respect and love.
We sang, we played fetch, we shadow boxed
We cheered for the Kings and jeered at the Ducks.
We watched Sarah put away the groceries.

Farewell, beloved friend, and thank you for everything.
For making me vulnerable and undeniably human
Though I can no longer hold you in my arms,
I will forever hold you in my heart –
the heart you would not let me forget I have.
Rest in peace, Baby. You have done well.
I can only wish the same can be said for me
When my time to come home arrives.