I am a stray cat, lost and alone
I scratch, hiss, and dismiss
Wandering through the alleys
Diminutive and mistreated
Until you found me
Gave me the care
I so desperately needed
You never sneered or spat
Or said I had to be an alley-cat
You offered me a bit of food
I had conceived humankind to be consistently rude
You were my diamond in the rough
Fashioned me a shield
One for which I shall always wield
You gave me a home
And I cherish it perpetually
So, I will brush up against your leg
And pray that it is forever
For I am overflowing with glorious gratitude
And graciously offer my life, eternal servitude
Crimson fabric about my neck
Being affectionally caressed on your deck
The life of a stray I have long forgotten
And I spend my days
Playing with a rolled-up ball of cotton
One day I hope for everyone to know incandescent happiness, true bliss. You all deserve it <3
Thank you for reading!