We Too Are Sentient

So what if I am an animal

That does not make me less of a mother

So what if I can't articulate

My love for my calf is in equal measure

Labour pains, agony of birthing

Every mother suffers excruciation

Nurturing feeding caressing guarding

Motherly instinct knows no distinction

My baby's visage and gestures say it all

Its fears its hunger I can fathom

Its urge for a hug its yearning for love

Are never hidden from a mother's bosom

Joy grief pain love anger too

I harbour emotions like humans do

Sentient and sensitive my heart wrenches

When my babies are trapped in trenches

On Mother's Day today

A mother makes a passionate plea

Mercy O avaricious man!

Every mother is gracious

Empathy O oppressive man!

Every baby is precious