the orange cat

all day
the orange tabby
wants in, then out.
she makes you stop
your work.
her loud cry is painful.
after five
or six times
her scratching at the door.
you grow weary
of the game,
no longer bending
to her wishes. 

you let her stay out.
you turn the music up, 

you ignore her.
kindness
and compassion have

their limits.