Old cat sleeping, sunning, still,
Content to lie prone
Where has your energy gone?

Once your tail was hoisted high
Mainsail to your explorations.
Now it lies, becalmed, serene,
Shipwrecked on your beanbag island.

Once you taunted fenced-in dogs,
Parading past, haunches haughty.
Now you shudder at a distant bark,
Bury your head, inspiring compassion.

Once you delighted in devilment,
Lay in wait to erupt from your hide.
Now you roll over, instantly yield,
Raise small paws in silent appeal.

Old cat sleeping, sunning, still
Content to lie prone
All your options have flown.