a poem I wrote called "The Innocents"

"The Innocents"

I sit cross-legged on the floor of the shelter
A large cat named Garfield nestles happily in my lap
I rub his stomach; he gazes up into my eyes
His heart is full; my heart is full
But he has Feline Leukemia.

I sit cross-legged on the floor of the shelter
An auburn cat named Tawny nestles happily in my lap
I stroke her back; she gazes up into my eyes
Her heart is full; my heart is full
But she has Feline HIV.

This shelter will keep the innocents safe from storms, feed them,
Treat their illnesses for all their lives
But they need love.
Some find love, some don't.
Can you share your heart with the innocents?

(Valerie Joy Lauria, Copyright 2001)
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This poem will be published in a book later this year. Pesronally, I don't think the writing is very good, : : but I think it brings out emotion. I know it did in me when I wrote it.

Thank you so much, Redheadhon

Val

Thank you TLK. I am honored to be here.

Val

Val,

That was a wonderful poem! I would love to give love to Aids and Leukemia positive cats. I have alot of it to hand out too! You have a big heart and it shows in your words. I'm glad you're here!

Donna

Donna,

I know you have the love to give
I originally went to the shelter to volunteer as a "socializer" LOL...to socialize cats so they would be more likely to be adopted. But when I saw the two rooms of terminally ill cats and realized that the chances of them being adopted was nil, I could not resist. I go in and keep them company. I play with them, sing to them, pet and cuddle them, give them some love. Most of the other volunteers are afraid to go in there. But there is nothing to be afraid of.
I adore my babies... MY babies LOL>.. and they seem to love me too.
I only hope I am making a difference in their lives. The shelter gives them care, feeds them, gives them meds, shelter. But they need love and companionship too. I only wish I had more time to give them.

Val

Val,

You ARE making a difference. Why people are afraid to go in is beyond me. It's not like they're going to catch anything. All they'll catch is the unconditional love that those precious babies give back. It's their (humans) loss.

Donna

Val this did bring tears into my eyes! For the umptieth time here I'll say it - I wish we had such shelters in Bulgaria! I'd go and give my whole life to the furbabies! The love they give is the only reward I could ask for - no money can be as rewarding as that!
Thank you for sharing!

Thank you so much Billie!
I so appreciate your kind words.

Val

Val - just beautiful