Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

JMCKUSICK

(6,623 posts)
Sat Apr 18, 2026, 05:52 PM Apr 18

Ode to Cuddles

Last edited Sat Apr 18, 2026, 07:13 PM - Edit history (1)

Sometimes when I have a moment or two,
I get a chance to reflect on you.

To come from nowhere to bless our presence,
Three years ago, you and Snuggles show up like presents.

Our journey together has been a life's worth already,
Whether snuggling in my robe, or keeping pace, nice and steady.

An adventure it seems has always been near,
Whether you catching a rabbit, or me spotting a deer.

I know you've used up, some of your nine lives,
And yet you embrace me, as each new adventure arrives.

Our bond has grown, fed by sadness and joys,
Some days were tough, others like hanging with the boys.

When life seemed so empty, you filled a void,
I truly can't recall, a time you've annoyed.

When my heart trouble started, you were there,
Through so many prayers, meditations and worried stares.

At home you usually slept, leaving me alone,
But on every walk, my lap was your throne.

Our stillness together, each moment a treat,
Our appreciation for nature, becoming more complete.

When Shadow arrived, knowing, God's gift that she was,
I prayed fervently, you'd welcome the courageous little puss.

Like an adopted sister, you embraced her day one,
And you must surely know, it's been nothing but fun.

With a new lease on life, so blessed I have been,
To travel this journey with you at my shin.

I write this cute poem, from the cemetery bench,
Where we've shared so many, memories I clench.

Thank you Cuddles, for seeing me through,
So many dark days, and the joyous ones too.

I love you pretty boy.



16 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies

Ziggysmom

(4,158 posts)
1. That's just lovely ❤️
Sat Apr 18, 2026, 06:17 PM
Apr 18

Hello from Stanley and Sophia. Both are rescues; Sophia was even untamed feral when we adopted her. They help me so much since my husband passed. It’s like they know when I’m sad and will cuddle close. I could not survive some days without them.
Bless you for being a loving cat daddy.





JMCKUSICK

(6,623 posts)
4. Oh my, thank you for sharing your precious babies with me.
Sat Apr 18, 2026, 07:19 PM
Apr 18

Petunia has always been the one that sensed that best, but then I've had her for fifteen years.

I know what you mean when you speak of them being lifesavers Ziggysmom, you deserve them, as so many things you've done for so long for them is coming back to you when you need it the most.

God Speed.

Ziggysmom

(4,158 posts)
13. Yes, she is the brown tabby. I'm taking Stanley to the vet Wednesday; I am seeing symptoms
Sun Apr 19, 2026, 03:26 PM
Apr 19

of hyperthyroidism in him. He eats constantly but lost some weight, plus he is hyperactive and he used to be really lazy. He turned 12 and that’s when they often develop the condition, as they geriatric. Always something!



JMCKUSICK

(6,623 posts)
6. Thank you MIButterfly,
Sat Apr 18, 2026, 07:25 PM
Apr 18

I hope you'll find some of my words could easily have been yours.

God Speed

JMCKUSICK

(6,623 posts)
15. I wrote it with him. I was sort of reading it to him and teared up too much
Mon Apr 20, 2026, 02:10 AM
Apr 20

To continue. He really has been there through the toughest parts in a more inclusive way than Petunia, I almost feel guilty.

Petunia has always been an indoor cat, so out adventures have been limited to moving trips lol.

Kick in to the DU tip jar?

This week we're running a special pop-up mini fund drive. From Monday through Friday we're going ad-free for all registered members, and we're asking you to kick in to the DU tip jar to support the site and keep us financially healthy.

As a bonus, making a contribution will allow you to leave kudos for another DU member, and at the end of the week we'll recognize the DUers who you think make this community great.

Tell me more...

Latest Discussions»The DU Lounge»Ode to Cuddles