Goodby, Dear Snuffy

The diagnosis was cancer, agressive. Treatment options were minimal, invasive and would have frightened him so I said goodbye to my dear friend today. I held him in my arms until he was gone and sent him on his way with gentle strokes and a kiss. I am not able to put into words how much I will miss my little crooked kitty with the bad leg and the quirky personality. My dear, dear Snuffy, my comfort, my joy, my love. How will I get by without you? I could not bear the thought of you suffering. I couldn’t see you grow thin and frail with sunken eyes that begged for freedom. I know in my heart I did the right thing, but my heart is breaking because I won’t see you again. Go in peace my sweet kitty and know that I loved you with all my heart, and always will.

IF I SHOULD GROW FRAIL

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain does keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done
for this - the last battle -can't be won.

You will be sad I understand
But don't let grief then stay your hand.
For on this day, more than the rest
Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end.
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must now be you
Who has to decide this thing to do.
We've been so close - we two -these years,