Old Mr McGuire, blind as a bat,
had a rabbit, a weasel, a dog and a cat.
He stroked them all as he sat by the fire,
some days they felt smooth,
and some days like wire.
With a bark, a hiss, a squeak and miaow
they demanded attention
and all got it somehow.
Old Mr McGuire, he loved them all –
‘To me you’re one creature
you’re all from the same sack.
God brought you here
and he’ll take you back.
You may think you’re all different
but, heavens above –
you are all of you loved
with one single love.’
Brian Patten