Sunday, January 4, 2009

One Single Impression -- Skin

This wasn't the poem I planned to write; this wasn't the day I expected to have. For the past four hours (it seems like twice that long), I have held and stroked Nino the cat, as he as progressed through violent seizures, unconsciousness, and now, semi-conscious pain but reviving; desperately, helplessly waiting for a call back from our vet, knowing that the nearest alternative for 24/7 veterinary care is many hard driving hours away.

skin, universal
mode of connectivity
--can transcend species.


sgreerpitt
January 4, 2009

18 comments:

Anonymous said...

..obviously u love ur cat so much-God Bless..

Anonymous said...

Oh how terrible! It's such an awful helpless feeling that you are going through. I do hope the the little guy pulls through, and you are all right, too!! Your poems captures so much of the truth between all loved one, whatever the species. Take care.

Beth P. said...

dear Sue--
I just lit a long-burning candle for Nino and you...

and yes, the skin of connectivity transcends species...and generations...and...

Thanks for your potent comment on my Gram's experience...that is of course, universal.

Prayers and silence for you and Nino

anthonynorth said...

Your feelings come over in your post. I hope everything will be okay.

SandyCarlson said...

I am with you and your cat in spirit. How I wish I could reach out and offer a touch of comfort.

I have been down this road, my friend. Though I have traveled it with a large dog once and a small guinea pig another time. Greater than all the pain was the love.

Anonymous said...

I like that this is inspired by Nino, hope Nino gets better soon

sgreerpitt said...

Thanks so much for all the good wishes. It is four hours later, and Nino ferociously (with growls and hisses like the minature tiger he is) asserts that he is still very much alive and has not given up. He has actually insisted on getting up and trying to walk, and eaten a few small bites. But I think his diabetes and the seizures may have rendered him blind. We have talked to the veterinary staff, and with him out of immediate danger, we have an early morning appointment.

Amias (ljm and liquidplastic) said...

Our pets are part of our family, and when they hurt we hurt to ...

I have discovered that "skin" is a part of everything in life on level or another.

Sherri B. said...

Oh my gosh, your words are beautifully written, and I'm so sorry for what you're dealing with. My dog was recently very ill so I can relate to the distress you're going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Nino.

Anonymous said...

I can feel the motor of the purr and the warmth of the cat on my lap. Thank you for reminding us that skin does transcend species.

Anonymous said...

skin definitely connects all living things :) hope your cat recovers.

Anonymous said...

It's sweet that loving your cat, inspired you. Nice!We often forget animals have skin.

Leah said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty. It's so hard when an animal we love is ill. Sending you loads of love and healing vibes.

Quiet Paths said...

Please let us know how it all transpires. My thoughts and hope and prayers out to you because I know how you must feel. The verse is profound in so many instances whether we sit by the bedside of humans or four leggeds.

Tumblewords: said...

So sorry - hope he regains health in a hurry - this poem speaks strongly of things we should learn... connective.

spacedlaw said...

Poor kitty. I bet your hodling hima and stroking did call him back to life: Who would die when there's cuddles to be had?

Anonymous said...

So true..

frenzied entropies

And please do visit the Poetry Train being run each Monday!

Anonymous said...

Never is more comforting that touch, Sue. So glad Nino is better.