We were away and a dear friend was looking after our house. One might be tempted to say looking after the cats as well but in many ways they look after us. But they would be pissed if they didn't get their food in time. On Saturday, Buddy, our special cat, went out for the day as he has been since the days became less cold. He never came back.
Our friend discovered very large coyote tracks near our house (a little too close). This is actually a desperate time for those unlucky to not have human benefactors. Winter is ending sure but it's been a hard one. I'm sure the creatures that inhabit the wild places groan in their own ways with minus 20 windchill. When it's so cold you need to eat to keep yourself warm enough. Even if spring is on the horizon you have to chance a trip close to the unnatural animals.
I imagine that Bud acted as he always did when he met a dog many times his size. He probably walked right up to that coyote and tried to claw his or her eyes out for daring to set foot on his territory. We weren't there to interfere like we normally are. I wonder if the coyote lost an eye or has a big scar to remember our ferocious (never to us, never) Bud.
I keep imagining the scene. He has inspired me to write again actually. Maybe the coyote just came to recruit him for the fight against clearcutting and other human crimes. Maybe Bud saw the suffering of this coyote and realized he should give himself up so another might live. I suppose that last one is more appropriate for Easter. I wouldn't put it past him he was so wise.
All our days are numbered I guess. Even the most wonderful of us. One of the first blog pieces I wrote was about Buddy. I'll miss you Buddy. Thank you for sharing your life with me. I'd give anything to have you sleep next to my head just one more time.
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