You were the only kitten on my grandparents farm came back to us after being missing for a week. You were my special man. I wasn't allowed to have a cat at home, but I would be down to see you 4-5 times a year when I went to visit the farm on vacation. My bedroom was full of pictures of you, and I called my grandparents all the times for updates on you. You always remembered me when I came to visit, running right up to me to cuddle and have your belly rubbed. My cousin lived in the area and saw you weekly; you were not affectionate like that with her. Even if you had gone on a mysterious week-long exploration trip, you always returned home on the day that I arrived on the farm- I dont't know how you always knew. I was 14 years old when I got the heartbreaking news that you had died outside during a terriable thunderstorm. I cried in a way that I had never cried before- I thought I would never be happy again. It has been nearly 10 years, and I still think about you often, and worry about the way you must have layed out there in that driving rain... it hurts every time that crosses my mind. I'm so sorry buddy.
I now have three cats that I love dearly (they live in my apartment in the lap of luxury), but I still hold a place for you in my heart. I wish that you had been able to live at my house when I was a kid, indoors with me- I would have been able to protect you from the dangers that lived outside. Maybe I would still have you now as my little old man cat. But you were such a happy outdoor cat; oh, what a mighty hunter you were! That was the life that you wanted, and though I lost you much too soon, I am happy that you were able to live your life to the fullest. I love you!

I am glad there is a place like this to share his story, where no one will roll their eyes and say "Oh, he's just a cat!" I pity people like that.
Dedicated to Thunder 1990-1997.