My friend Rebecca came over earlier just to visit. I know that Becky does not care for cats which is why when we do get together, it is usually at the local diner for a cup of coffee and some fellowship. But she decided to arrive unannounced and as I opened the door, the cats scattered. Just this stray cat scramble, I could see set Becky on edge.
As she settled on the couch, Charlie, my most alpha returned and jumped on the back of the couch. I warned him back, but he wouldn’t be detered in his mission and he continued his advancement on my ill-at-ease friend. Cats seem to sense the people who are not fond of them. Perhaps they come to the timid knowing they are in full control, and the new guest isn’t going to squeal in delight and scoop up the “pretty kitty” for a good petting.
Becky scooted away and I suggested we perhaps go outside and sit at the picnic tables. She stood up just as Charlie gained the advantage of her lap and he slid down on the floor leaving behind a few scratch marks on her legs.
As we settled outside, several of my barn cats came by to say hello. I think that did it for Becky and she proceeded to tell me that she didn’t appreciate all this feline attention. She said she doesn’t understand me- how can I drive around town with cat carriers and cat food in my truck- wander into town with cat hair on my sweatshirt and share my life with all these cats!
During her ranting, I saw the erosion of a friendship founded in the Word just split apart. I wondered what was wrong with her that she couldn’t accept my deep respect and admiration for these creatures that the world had kicked around. So much for her witness and her Christian love for her sisters. I just let her spew her frustration and when she was done- I showed her the gate.
I said very little to her but I have to admit as she drove away, I was proud of my barn cats. One of them had walked all over her sportscar and left muddy prints on her windows. As her triade left a lasting impression on my heart, so did those pawprints on her window.
If her heaven exists without animals, I do not wish to go there. Instead, I will go where my cats before me have gone and we will enjoy our time without interruption.
Do i have an unconventional life? I suppose I do by most standards. I would prefer to spend a quiet moment witth one of my cats than an afternoon of coffee and fellowship with someone who doesn’t understand true love.
I’m sorry for the loss, but cheers to an unconventional life!
If you can believe it, recently I’ve been given negative feedback for having 2 cats at home. The horror on their faces as they tell me they couldn’t stand the thought of having such creatures ‘invade’ their personal spaces. I’ll take a Nakita over a human any day. *grin*
I can’t imagine life without cats — it would be an empty, pointless existence. I’m proud of rescuing these cats and providing for them. Yes, it is worrisome sometimes and a lot of work, but just to see them lazing in the sun or playing in the yard brightens my day. When they run to see me, eager to “talk” to me, my soul jumps with excitement and pleasure. Let others live their selfish lives by themselves — we know we’re on the right track!
My life without Cats would an empty one. Those who don’t like cats are in fear the of nonjudgmental love a cat will give. I look to you as a hero to take all the unwanted babies in this world.
You have to be true to yourself and the animals we are lucky enough to spend our lives with. She will never feel the love you feel and for that I am sorry for her. I share my house with 6 cats and people always make the comment that I am becoming the scary cat lady – I always say not so scary but cat lady absolutely!! I admire you and your life.
I agree with all of the other comments, whole heartedly!! I wonder deep down what is really bothering her, I doubt it is the cats. I too would rather sit with my cats and have quiet time and just be thankful for everything I have been blessed with.
Bless you for staying true to yourself and your fur kids. Lily (who is curled up on my lap as I type) dittoes that.
My “friends” who do not understand some of the sacrifices I make and things I do for my cats, soon find themselves outside the realm of my circle of friends. In fact, I can’t think of a current friend who does not have a cat, except those few who love cats, but who are allergic to them.
Meet Lily, Max and Sophie at my blog site. http://www.matilijapress.com/catscapades. These 3 kitties and about 36 others are featured in my new book, “Catscapades, True Cat tales.”
Patricia Fry
Lily’s adoring person