she rubs her cheek 
against my hand and
settles into my lap with a purr.

she stays there for hours-
providing quiet comfort 
even as my tears wet her fur.

her face has become more white
and her eyes aren’t as bright as
they once were.

I realize I’m still in my prime
and I’ll likey live a long life.
My vision begins to blur. 

why do all the most loyal creatures 
have lifespans that are so much shorter?