Lessons From Our Neighborhood Cat
We live in a townhouse complex. While there could 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 area and river right out back, and a great children’s play area. Everyone gets along great and respects each other.
We call her Puss in Boots, from the classic French fairy tale. She’s an outdoor cat, and while I’m sure she visits all the neighbors, she makes us feel like we’re her favorites. She sits on the fence in our backyard and will sometimes come in the house for a short visit. When we get home, she leads the way from the parking lot.
This is the friendliest cat I’ve ever met. I can be coming home at 2:00 a.m. from a long road trip or a tiring hockey game, and seeing this cat will give me an energy boost and put me in a good mood. She just has this way of making you feel good, like a messenger of love and peace. Just the sound of her bell makes me smile.
She’s become like a member of our family, and I’ll even ask about her when I call home from the road.
It makes me so happy to think and write about the gifts that I get from this neighborhood cat:
1. She gives without wanting anything in return (ok, maybe a belly rub). That’s just what she does - brings happiness to people.
2. She is an instant mood changer - furry happiness.
3. She brings us back into the moment - one look at her and the stress melts away as we remember, “Oh yeah, life is good.”
Is there a pet in your life who gives you these kinds of gifts? Take a moment to reflect on just how lucky you are. And maybe make time for an extra belly rub tonight.