Lessons from our neighborhood cat
We live in a townhome complex. While there might be some challenges with so many people living in such a small area, ours is a true community. There are lots of green spaces with a ravine and river just behind, and a large playground for children. They all get along very well and respect each other.
We call it Puss in Boots, from the classic French fairy tale. She is an outdoor cat and although I’m sure she visits all the neighbors, she makes us feel like we are her favorites. She sits on the fence in our backyard and sometimes she comes over to the house for a short visit. When we get home, she leads the way from the parking lot.
This is the friendliest cat I have ever met. I may be coming home at 2:00 am after a long road trip or a grueling hockey game, and seeing this cat will give me a boost of energy and put me in a good mood. She just has that way of making you feel good, like a messenger of love and peace. Just the sound of her bell makes me smile.
She has become a member of our family, and I even ask for her when I call home from the road.
It makes me so happy to think and write about the gifts I receive from this neighborhood cat:
- She unintentionally gives nothing in return (ok, maybe a tummy rub). That’s just what she does: she brings happiness to people.
- She’s an instant mood changer – furry bliss.
- She brings us back to the moment: one look at her and the stress melts away as we remember, “Oh yes, life is good.”
Is there a pet in your life that gives you these kinds of gifts? Take a moment to reflect on how lucky you are. And maybe I’ll make time for an extra tummy rub tonight.