Cat-Astrophe Poem by Angela Wybrow

I was making my way through our estate,
When I spotted the sign by your front gate;
Those two words, black upon white,
Before my eyes, were an unwelcome sight.

I quickly gathered that you'd soon be moving,
And, suddenly, my soul needed some soothing;
As I carried on walking down past your block,
My mind was struggling with a sense of deep shock.

A sense of sadness had gripped me inside,
And, the tears in my eyes, I tried hard to hide;
I had honestly never thought that far ahead,
And, I have to admit, a few tears were shed.

I've cherished the times that we've spent together;
Many a storm, you've helped me weather.
When we're together, my heart feels much cheer;
I enjoy your company and having you near.

Whenever we meet, you make me smile,
And I can lose myself for a short while;
You push your face against my own;
Over time, our friendship has grown.

Just like a beacon, you brighten my day:
My days will be darker when you go away.
You're special, spontaneous, and really quite cute,
And, on purpose, I take the same daily route;

I remember way back when you were a kitten:
Even back then, I was totally smitten;
I remember you peering over the wall:
Back then, I didn't know what name I should call.

Although, to my family, you don't belong,
The bond between us is still really strong.
I really do wish that the news wasn't true:
Since seeing the sign, I've been feeling so blue.

One day soon, the sign will read ‘SOLD':
My colour will drain and my blood will run cold.
I will take a photo to capture your face,
And, on my wall, it will take pride of place.