Soul Friend

Summary

Max, the author's cherished cat, was a soulful companion for 18 years, inspiring art and a poem after his passing, with the author reflecting on the concept of silence in memory of Max.

Abstract

The author recounts the deep bond with their cat, Max, who unexpectedly became their "fur buddy" and traveled with them through life's transitions for 18 years. Max is described as a familiar, a consoling presence, and a teacher. After Max's passing, the author painted a series in his honor and wrote a poem, expressing that love, while profound, cannot defy the inevitability of loss and the cycle of life. The author also hints at an upcoming story featuring Max as a trickster and provides links to further explorations on the theme of silence and additional artwork inspired by Max.

Opinions

The author acknowledges a transformative experience in their perception of cats, attributing this change to Max's companionship.
Max is portrayed as an integral part of the author's life, someone who witnessed and shared in the author's life journey.
The author expresses a poignant sentiment that despite the depth of love, it cannot alter the natural progression of life and death.
There is an anticipation of sharing Max's trickster qualities in an upcoming story, suggesting a view of Max as not just a pet but a character with depth and personality.
The author's reflections on silence, particularly the "third silence," indicate a contemplative and philosophical perspective on the experience of loss and remembrance.

Soul Friend

art by Harry Stefanakis (signed in Greek)

Fur Buddy — chosen

Stood from the crowd

Pounced at first sight

Soul friend, trickster

Eighteen years true

Then inevitably

The wheel must turn

And the third silence

did return

Max was my fur buddy for 18 years. I never considered myself a cat person until he chose me. He became my familiar and traveled with me through many life transitions witnessing, consoling, and teaching. After he passed I painted a series dedicated to him (see painting above for an example) and wrote this poem. As is true with all loved ones — if love was enough, you would have lived forever.

There is a story I am writing about Tricksters and Max that will be published in the near future.

For the meaning of the third silence follow the link to:

Another painting in the series I mentioned can be found here:

Soul Friend

Silence X 3

I have known three kinds of silence

Simplicity -

reprise