Jasper

Jasper is Diane's cat.  A loyal companion, his way of tending to her is very dear.  The other day Diane was running a fever and had a hard time getting warm.  Despite the down comforter she had rolled around her, she still shivered within her cocoon.  Jasper knew to slip under the covers and position himself on her belly.  This seemed to help and they spent a quiet night together, sharing warmth and time.

The next day it was evident that Jasper's care had helped to improve Diane's appetite and she was able to enjoy some soup and really good, strong coffee.  As we sat at her kitchen table, we watched her backyard birds dancing from feeder to feeder.  The sun was bright and the sky was full of the impending fall. Jasper sat alongside of us, folding himself into a tidy and compact pillow of quiet assurance and support.  For a little while, he sat squarely in front of me looking right at me, his eyes a deep and restful green.  His gaze on me was so focused that I almost shied away from looking so directly into it, but as I allowed myself to meet him, I felt his trust and understanding.

We have someone in common.  Diane.  We share an affection for her and an enjoyment in hearing the stories she tells of her parents and her sons.  Jasper's an attentive listener and faithful dinner partner.  I'm glad to share my visits with him and I especially appreciate his steadfast presence and readiness to share his warmth.  Jasper sticks close by and knows his role.  I look forward to more visits and more stories with the two of them as fall arrives.  Friends for life, Jasper and Diane.