Cat-Like

When I was young I had cat-like moves,

was relentless, and had no fears;

now, all that identifies me with a cat,

is the hair growing out of my ears!

I’m old, and gray, and I’ve lost my strut,

I’m not quite what I used to be;

though I’ve mellowed with age, and my eyes have dimmed,

that isn’t what’s troubling me.

Now, I’m quite aware of my surroundings,

I know what side my bread’s buttered on;

I just can’t remember the total

of lives lost, before nine are gone!

I’ll tell you what finally consoles me,

even cursed with these patches of fur;

I know when I’m blessed by my Master,

and I still have my ability to purr!