These We Have Loved

Over the years I have said goodbye to so many of my beloved companions, it is never easy. After loosing my beautiful Pagan I wrote this in tribute to her, it may seem familiar as I took inspiration from a well known poem that was read at the funeral service of one of my best friends, written by Mary Elizabeth Frye in 1932 "Do not stand at my grave and weep")

Words From a Beloved Pet
(A tribute for my beloved Pagan)

Do not think of me and weep,
I’m not in pain, but in a gentle sleep.
I’m in the summer garden, chasing bees.
I’m in the sun-lit window, drowsy, at my ease.
I’m in the quiet shadows, curled beside a friend or two,
And with a blissful purr I’ll always be with you
As you think to stroke my ears, my face, my feet.

I am the glorious kitten that first stole your heart.
I am the mischief that ever needs to play its part
In everything you do, in every room and time of day.
Mine are the teeth-marks on your books
And the claw-marks on the stair –
Occasional and tender reminders that I was there.

Mine is still the perfect face set with glowing eyes.
Mine is still the gentle greeting when you rise,
A sweet voice faintly heard, a shadow passing by.
I will never really leave you –
So do not think of me and cry.
If you remember me I shall not die and fade away.
I’m ever in your heart and mind,
I’m in the memory of all the love we shared,
And such is the peace I wish for you to find.
                                                             Linda Vousden

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