"She flitted about the No Man's Land, From The Rising Sun to The Friend at Hand...." That's what T.S. Eliot wrote about my great-aunt Grizabella. I flitted there myself, for what seems a long, long time, and it was more No Man's - or Woman's - Land than it was a Friend at Hand. I am still hoping for that Friend, but my days of flitting and surviving have left me wary. How do I know a Friend from someone who wants to use me only because I am beautiful? How do I know my True Friend from leering lotharios who hope to steer my glamour into their sleazy clubs?

I wait here, between glamour and glory, holding out for a quiet, simpler life. I remember that Grizabella sang, "Daylight, I must wait for the sunrise, I must think of a new life, And I mustn't give in...." I'll not give in to the ordinary nor the sad nor the tragic. Invite me into your life, "And a new day will begin...." I am still beautiful, I know. I have heard those words from people here - and from Jacko who, like me, learned from the streets more than a cat should ever have to learn. I am told my face is enchanting, that, perhaps, it could launch a thousand ships.

But I am done with glamour, with leering, with the streets. I wish to hear soothing songs, come to trust a Person or two enough that She and/or He will brush my stunning long, blended fur and bring me once again to shine. I am not a kitten; I am an Old Soul. I carry wisdom and depth and warmth that, in my center, I long to share with my True Friends. I know, "It's so easy to leave me All alone with the memory Of my days in the sun....." Please don't; I am ready for more days in the sun, shining through your windows. Not planning to be reborn like Grizabella, though her spirit guides me to your door. Come here to find me - now safe and always beautiful. Bring, please do, $100 for my guides and soothers. Remember what my great-aunt sang, "If you touch me, you'll understand what happiness is - Look, a new day has begun!"


PS: I currently reside at THE SHELTER (not in foster care). If you can't stop in, please call 651-642-5900, ext.3 to find out more about me. Thanks!