I found you today, curled and still
Outside of your little purple house
(I know from experience that your kind always die in the open.)
Little Speedy,
One of many Speedy’s I have caged
In my classroom, to charm the children
Children delighted to see a real mouse,
Hold it in their palm, feel that racing heart
Peer close to see tiniest of toes and nails
Soft fur, sweet black pearls of eyes
So shy, tearing tissue for blankets,
Plugging closed the doorway of your hidey house.
So funny, nibbling and twitching
Running the wheel so fast
You spin around belly up
I knew I would find you today,
The tumor a weight you had to carry as you played,
One leg splayed out from it
What I want to say is sorry
Someone took your ancestor from free fields
Dooming you to no space, no work, no risk
What I want to say is thank you
You helped sad children laugh
You never bit, you were a good mouse
Pencilonmybackporch 
I’m so sorry for your loss. I love your tribute to Speedy — including the apology and the thank you. It was beautiful.
LikeLike
Your homage to what some might consider a rodent is so moving and heartfelt. I get this sense that your classroom is a loving and kind place where the smallest of god’s creatures is a valued member of the community. I’m sure that you will help them to navigate this life lesson with support, compassion, and hope. Thanks for sharing this poignant slice.
LikeLike
Aww, I’m sorry about the loss of your pet. Poor Speedy, tried to keep you all laughing until he couldn’t any more. Hugs.
LikeLike
Your last stanza is brilliant. This mouse did have a purpose. What a sweet and thoughtful eulogy.
LikeLike
This is a beautiful tribute to your class pet. The lines that really got me were:
“I knew I would find you today,
The tumor a weight you had to carry as you played,
One leg splayed out from it.”
LikeLike