Xiao Qi Ji: A Memoir, with Love

I think about all the days Xiao Qi Ji brought

sheer joy into my life,

was the reason I smiled that day

or, laughed—really laughed, until my sides hurt

or … until tears rolled down my cheeks.

I think about

how a tiny pink

and hairless cub

could bring smiles

laughter, glee

to fill the world

while we watched

Mei Xiang nurtures, cares, and teaches.

I think about all the days

he gave me hope

that I could buy toilet paper and soap.

I think about all the days

my spirits lifted

simply observing the devotion

of mother Mei Xiang,

a devotion more vast than the most expansive ocean.

I think about all the days

of admiration

one for the other and both, of course

oh the adoration

I think about all the days

as love flows like a river,

hither and thither.

I think about all the days of

XQJ—enchanting, captivating

poignant and precocious

a little bit goofy

strike that—a whole lot of goofy!

He is silly and sassy,

bold and brave,

fierce and fun,

athletic and talented

loving and lovable

handsome and humorous—

yes, all that!

I think about the days

I eagerly anticipated what new surprise

a tiny cub, pint-size,

could discover with his gaze.

I think about those days

he created within me—a glow

he is my fella, but he can be your beau.

Xiao Qi Ji, may you have long … long life.