a stray
my cat is still missing
today, the maintenance man took the bird you left for me outside my window.
i kept it right where you left it in case you decided to return,
but the option is gone now.
i still see you in every stray,
hear you in the wind,
and check for you behind every bush.
my ears, eyes, and arms are still ready to receive you
if you ever come back home.
lola won't even touch your food dish.
we're all waiting,
prodigal son.
About the Creator
kp
I am a non-binary, trans-masc writer. I work to dismantle internalized structures of oppression, such as the gender binary, class, and race. My writing is personal but anecdotally points to a larger political picture of systemic injustice.
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Comments (14)
This is heartbreaking. I hope he comes home.
Hope your kitto return soon. I have lost mine forever. By the way never stop looking for her!
Congrats on top story. I published my poem today about a cat my neighbor abandoned. This cat is also black. I wrote my piece before knowing about yours. I truly hope your fur baby returns. Your love and devotion are most obvious. It sickens me how some folks will leave their animals behind without batting an eyelash. Sending well wishes!
Love a good stray cat.
Awww 🥺 Sending my prayers! Congrats on top story by the way! 💌
this is written with so much love.
Gosh this broke my heart 😭
Oh no....so sad.
Oh no. I hope he comes home. The not knowing is the worst.
I hope your cat returns to you soon. Cats sometimes roam and pop up when you least expect them.
Damn, this was well crafted.
This shattered my heart into pieces, ‘I still see you in every stray’ I really do hope your cat comes back. Sending tight reassuring hugs 🫂
This broke my heart. Hugs from Rachel and from me as well.
I hope...same as you. Hugs.