Learning Humanity From Our Furry Friends

A friend had to say goodbye to a beloved pet today. The pain and grief the family is going through is just another reminder of how much our pets become part of our families. This is why we must cherish every day and every moment we get to share with them. I do this with Cookies, my very special kitty.

Back in 2008, a sad, sick little kitty showed up on a very cold December night while we were visiting with friends. When everyone was outside to fawn over it, I sat inside and thought I had had my fill of cats while growing up on the farm. (I think at one time, we had over 50 running around outside.) I finally went out to see what all the fuss was about and as I looked down at this sweet, lonely kitty, my life immediately changed. (We were at the friends’ house for a cookie exchange, hence her name, Cookies.)

We got her to the vet and found out she had tape and round worms. She also tested positive for feline leukemia. Over the next few days, she got stronger and friskier. All of a sudden, my previously clean house was full of cat toys, cat hair, a litter box, and the sweetest sounds you’ll ever hear—a happy kitty running around. The focus of our lives was now Cookies. And two people who had already agreed to not have kids, we were happy to share our lives and love with her.

Flash forward a few months to the Spring of 2009. Despite having fought off severe depression during a few months the year before, I found myself balled up on my bedroom floor, crying, and very close to “opting out”. Then I felt it. My little Cookies came out of nowhere and, with unspoken compassion, cuddled up next to me. She was purring and loving; she saved my life that day. As much as I loved her before that day, it was infinitely strengthened.

After my wife and I separated in 2010, I only wanted a few things, and naturally Cookies was one of them and the only thing I would have fought for. Luckily for me, my wife knew how much I need Cookies, so there wasn’t much of an issue with that.

Cookies has helped me more than I could ever repay. She greets me at the door. She sleeps with me. She has completely taken over the house. And when I sleep in and miss her morning treats, she wakes me up nibbling on my nose. Knowing that she’s positive feline leukemia, and therefore more susceptible to illness, I spoil the hell out of her. I also realize that my time with her won’t last forever. Because of this, I savor every bit of joy we share.

If you haven’t already, consider opening your home and your heart to a pet in need. There are plenty of local shelters and places where you might be able to find your own little Cookies. I promise you, your life will be better, I know mine is.

And if you want to know what all the fuss is about, Cookies does have her own Facebook fan page. She made me set it up.