"Rabbits"

RABBITS
by M McIlree


I don’t deserve to be bought because I’m young and cute
I don’t deserve to be tossed because you’re bored and want something new
I don’t deserve to live in the cold
I don’t deserve to be euthanized because I’m old
I don’t deserve to be bred for you to make money
I don’t deserve to be fed only carrots because you watch Bugs Bunny
I don’t deserve to die from neglect
I don’t deserve to be thought of as a disposable pet
I don’t deserve to be left in my cage
I don’t deserve to be hurt by your rage
I don’t deserve to be picked up by the ears
I don’t deserve to be ignored - you can’t see my tears
I don’t deserve to be thrown in the trash
I don’t deserve for my fur to be tied up in mats
I don’t deserve to be fed food that makes me sick
I don’t deserve to be raised in ignorance

I deserve love, compassion and kindness
I deserve a home that is real, forever and safe
I deserve to live without fear, sickness and hate
I deserve nothing less than you yourself deserve

I need you to know how much I need you
And with time you will need me too