Chessie

Chessie

CHESSIE LIONBERGER

1993-2010

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,

And pain should keep me from my sleep,

Then you must do what must be done

For this, the last battle, can't be won.

For this day more than the rest,

Your love and friendship stand the test.

We've had so many good years,

What is to come can hold no fear.

You'd not want me to suffer, so,

When the time comes, please let me go.

Take me where my needs they'll tend,

Only stay with me to the end.

And hold me firm and speak to me

Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time that you will see

It is a kindness you do for me.

Don't grieve that it should be you who decides,

We've been a close family all these years,

Don't let your heart hold the tears.

But smile, for we walked together for awhile.

Author Unknown

Our family adopted Chessie and Sissie seventeen years ago when they were tiny, six week old kittens.  Chessie has been ill for several months - the vet thinks she may have had a form of feline cancer.  The vet was very kind and I was able to hold her the whole time.  But, its been one of those really tough days.

Thanks to my friend, Peggy K, for sharing the above poem.