LADY AND THE TRAMP (For Mary) by Gary Jurechka

I am just
one of the strays
she takes in every
now and then,
like a hurt child, a wet kitten,
or a hungry dog,
she offers compassion and understanding,
she feeds me and nurses me and
makes me feel good for awhile,
basking in the warmth of her eyes
and when I'm strong enough to leave,
she opens the door and
lets me out into the world
until once more,
alone and lost and dark,
I'm scratching at her door,
longing for her shelter,
silent eyes pleading, take me in...

November 19, 1994