Tender Touches

When would she come?

Winston didn’t know.

He did not even know his name,

On that day so long ago.

When she arrived, he knew it then,

The lady with the loving eyes,

He ran right up to her with glee,

And she scooped him up to his surprise.

Happy Birthday he heard the man say,

He didn’t yet know this was “dad”.

For he was only eight weeks old,

A sweet and loving Siamese lad.

He found the best mommy, he knew,

And loved his new home very well.

He slept upon her pillow that night,

As he would for life his mommy could tell.

He followed her around like a little pup,

Bringing his ball for her to throw.

Playing fetch was a favorite game,

For mommy’s precious little shadow.

Winston would anxiously wait,

Whenever his mommy had to go,

Excitedly somersaulting upon her return,

For the “tummy kisses” she would bestow.

The years went by, and Winston was twelve.

His bond with mommy was very strong.

His leg was lame and causing him pain,

She knew in her heart that something was wrong.

The news was bad, the doctor said.

Winston had bone cancer of the worst form.

There were no options that could help,

There was no magic to perform.

Mommy knew in her shattered heart,

The only thing that could be done.

Tears of love and pain flowed free,

As she held her baby with warm affection.

The night before it was time to leave,

Winston let his mommy know,

He caressed her face with tender touches,

As he lay upon her tear soaked pillow.

A special kitty resides at the Bridge,

Among doggies, birds, kitties and fishes,

Awaiting the day he’ll somersault again,

To receive his mommy’s “tummy kisses”.

Sandra Hender

Written for Gwen’s “Winston”

March 1^st, 2007