The Cat

Every morning

The cat

Through careful observation 

Of his chosen human 

Comes to sit on her lap 

For 15 minutes before the day’s activities begin 

With head butts and snuggles 

Purrs and synchronized heartbeats 

He reminds her 

Of her Center 

And to breathe slowly 

Muscles that had begun to contract 

And thoughts to race 

Stop their ascent 

Fight or flight forgotten 

She breathes, grateful 

Eyes closed 

And returns his blessing 

With a kiss between his ears 

He gets up 

Returns to birdwatching 

At the window 

And the day begins