We get a fair number of stray cats around our house. Some of them are incredibly peaceful and affectionate. So it’s very easy to be kind with them and try to find out if they have a home nearby. In some cases, when they end up living under our porch for a number of months and it is clear they don’t have a place to live, Judi often finds them a good home.
There’s a whole spectrum of behavior among these cats, ranging from very tame and affectionate to completely wild and unapproachable. If you do happen to accidentally corner one of the wilder ones, they are all claws and fangs.
It saddens me to see how these cats seal their own fate based upon their behavior. You wish you could just let the wild ones know to calm down—everything’s fine. They are creating their own problems. Of course, you can’t do that.
Humans are strikingly the same way. We create our own heaven or hell, determined by our relationship with the world.
I think its a brilliant example.
Thank you so much.
I love our kitty so I read your blog with some trepidation. But as usual your words brought relief. Thank you!
I agree with Gail… what a brilliant example. It really sinks in!
Thank you, this is a perfect example for us humans to follow. When I am remote, so are people around me, when I am open and affectionate, they respond the same. Since I work at home for employment, I find myself become a recluse. When I am all of a sudden aware and change my thoughts, then I get calls and emails etc from friends and family…I did not do any reach out, my attitude inside called to them…always makes me smile. I feel the same from them also, when they retract and I reach out, they respond immediately with a smile. Thank you, again, for the great reminder.
Great example! Thank you
My grandfather used to say something to that effect. Your analogy painted a much better picture. And the words are beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
Great example. Thanks again for your clarity
Fantastic insightful blog! Poor kitties – got to help them!
Ahhhh… But even a gentle cat will use claws and teeth when treated with disrespect. That’s why they’re such excellent pets/teachers for children.
I’ve had some ferocious and antisocial cats in my life,yet ones capable of deep connections. Buggar bonded so deeply with my son in utero, laying on my tummy when before he wouldn’t allow himself to be picked up. That bond was amazing to witness as my son grew up.
Then there was Ferrari, who lay in my arms like a baby to have his tummy scratched, but also attacked me when my mood was fuming. I am looking at myself now through the eyes of my cats, ruminating on my relationship to the world. Can I come live under your porch?
My apologies for asking if I could come live under your porch. That request was ripe for exploration and how much I identify with the stray cat.
I love it when people share bits of their explorations. It nearly always triggers one for me, too. Thank you Charlotte and Judith especially.
Awesome analogy! Thank you.