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Just. Stop.

And pet the cat.

He’s clearly positioned himself
in your way
already purring
though you’ve done nothing for it.

Exposing his belly skyward
though you’ve only
just stepped into the room.

Groceries can wait.
Look at mail later – it’s only bills you can’t pay.
And stop, mostly ruminations about
“how things could be better.”

When what could usurp this invitation
from enormous orange strip-ed regal tiger
Richard,
with whom you are house-sitting.

So sit. In this house.
No, better, lie down
next to his unconditional
impressiveness.

And let him show you,
for the low low cost
of his company,
how to make yourself

at home.

Karen Anne Hayes is a newcomer to the Cape, but is not sure she should mention that.

A writer of prose and poetry, she uses the word to paint a panel of experience to which she would otherwise only be privy. And hopes that her renderings are of some benefit.

Teacher, practitioner of Chinese medicine, lover of travel, Zen meditation, cooking, gardening and photography, Karen feels blessed to be on the Cape where inspiration lurks in every direction.