Inspiration #29 - Compassion
One of my fondest desires is to have more pets. The love we have with our pets is so uncomplicated and unparalleled. A few years ago, I lost both of my two big dogs within a short time-span - both due to old age. It makes me a wee bit sad to think of them, but happy too, remembering back all the good times we had together.
Here is a picture of them which hangs on my wall nearby:
Okay - crummy pic, I know. But I love it because they have their paws crossed, and were always this close and bonded. I also particularly love the look of pure sincerity in Benji's eyes (the Wheaton on the left). I know, you cannot see Rocky's eyes too well - I used to like her wild and wooly. ;)
The reason I am hesitating is because I don't want to break little Teddy's heart. He is so attached to me (and I to him), that I fear he wouldn't understand why we wasn't 'enough' for me to love. The thing is though, I have so much love inside of me to give, I dither.
Almost 2 years ago, about 6 months after I lost Benji, a beautiful cat came onto my balcony, and long story short, he (almost) instantly became a part of my little family. Teddy still gets jealous, but because Karma is "just a cat" in his mind, he tolerates the affection I give him.
All this brings me to say that a few weeks ago, I heard a noise outside that sounded like a baby crying. Went out to look around, and found a beautiful grey cat. :) I remembered the routine from the early days of Karma, and went outside, gave him some cookies, and we were instant friends.
I was secretly delighted, because I figured how could Teddy possibly mind, seeing the poor thing outside all cold and skinny. The next day, I excitedly told my neighbour about finding "my new cat", and he immediately told me that this cat actually belongs to a woman down the road. Okay, I think - we didn't actually bond or anything, so I shall just ignore him, and hope he'll go back home.
Easier said than done. It's been WEEKS now. This little guy shows up around 5am, meowing up a storm. He stays pretty much the whole day, and far into the night. He comes right up to the windows, looks around, and sees us all cozy and warm in front of the fire, and really, REALLY wants to come in.
Here he is on top of my wood pile outside, with a size comparison pic with Teddy all electrified and punked-out:
Uggghhh. It's that same look of absolute sincerity that is killin' me. It's so hard to "say no".
If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.
- Dalai Lama
I am thinking this Spring, I'm going to have to add to my 'brood', otherwise I shall simply burst. I've just got to find a way to 'explain' it to Teddy. Now I am off to dole out my mid-morning cookies and cuddles for all!
 Suzi Date 1/29/2012 12:39:35 PM
Is it possible the woman down the road has abandoned this kitty? Or maybe it's a different cat, entirely & maybe a long way from home. Why not go ask her directly? You could also post a flyer & if no one responds to it, you've got a new family member! Just a thought,...
Val Date 1/29/2012 12:51:02 PM
Hiya Suzi! I thought perhaps he was abandoned as well, but apparently he's not. We all don't treat our pets the same, that's for sure. Poor little guy...
Annie Date 1/29/2012 1:21:34 PM
Your visiting cat makes me think of friends who have a visiting cat. The cat comes in their house and hangs out, and then heads back to his family. We don't know if his family knows about his affair with my friend's family, but my friend recognizes how she has it pretty easy (daily, she gets a cat to cuddle and hang out with, but she doesn't have to change the litter box, take him to the vet, or stock up on food!). :)
Val Date 1/29/2012 1:25:38 PM
Sounds like a win-win situation for both your friend and the lucky vagabond cat. I'm hesitating because I feel if I added an outdoor critter to my family, I'd want to take him to the Vet first, etc, just to make sure and all. Teddy at 5 pounds wet is kind of fragile health-wise.
Suzi Date 1/29/2012 1:32:02 PM
Poor little guy, indeed. That's a long time for an animal to be outside in Winter. Many people seem to be so ignorant & think they don't get cold or freeze.
You say it's been weeks. It sounds -to me- like he's chosen you & I doubt it's because your cookies are THAT good. Perhaps he's come to you for his rescue....?
pat indorf Date 1/29/2012 3:28:10 PM
It looks like he has adopted you! pretty cat.
Val Date 1/30/2012 7:21:03 AM
Here's a quick update: I heard him at 1:45 this morning, brought him into my entrance-way, and decided, since I got a real good up-close look at him as he was sitting in my lap that his name will be Ringo, as his tail is ringed with stripes. :) Shall try to speak to neighbor today.
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