Cats have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Indeed my very earliest memories involve my interactions with members of the family Felis catus. My most recent memories do as well. Even as I sit at my desk, there are reminders.
On the wall by my desk hangs this picture. This is Nicholas. Nicky. My late and much loved companion for many - but far too few - years. He's been gone now for more years than he lived, but he's still with me. As long as my heart beats he will be a part of it.
And this is Beau, seen here dozing on the windowsill in my office. It was a favorite spot of his. We lost him last year to cancer. I grieve still.
We got Beau and his sister Bella some months after Nicky's death. I wasn't sure I was ready for another cat when our younger daughter and her friend found them, abandoned, on a country road. They needed a home so how could I say no?
They are a bit more defined here - Bella on the left, Beau on the right.
And now only Bella remains. Here she is, in her younger days, atop the bookcases in the library. It was her favorite spot back then. I think she just loved looking down on us. She's fifteen years old now and doesn't aspire to such heights anymore. These days she enjoys sleeping in the sun from that same window where her brother used to doze.
Before Beau and Bella, there were Oscar and Zelda - Oscar named for Oscar Wilde and Zelda for Zelda Fitzgerald. Wonderful animals!
These cats and so many others before (not to mention various dogs, birds, rabbits, chickens, fish, and even one rat!) have been an integral part of my life and have taught me to appreciate all the many ways that Nature has of expressing consciousness and that all those ways have value and things to teach us. Inasmuch as I have a philosophy of life, it is just that. It is not a bad guiding philosophy I think. And it is all thanks to Nicky and all those other cats and various animals.
Thanks for posting this lovely tribute to your felines. They look cozy and handsome in every picture. I hope you still have many more years sharing their love. I have had a dog, fish, and two cockatiels, out of which only one remains, a little devil I adore.
ReplyDeleteOur pets are such an important part of our lives. It would be hard to overstate their significance. Enjoy your "little devil"!
DeleteIt must surely be a bit paradoxical that having spent my entire life involved with wild creatures, and feeling that I am inextricably connected to them, I have not had the inclination to have domestic pets. I do realize, however, that for some it is as essential as food and water. I am glad that you have this strong attachment and fond memories, Dorothy.
ReplyDeleteI grew up on a farm and was always surrounded by animals. Only for one short period of my life, when I lived in an apartment, was I ever without animals in my life. That was also the unhappiest period of my life. I think there is a connection there.
DeleteOur pets remain long in our memories after their days with us are done. Life is so much richer for them.
ReplyDeleteExactly. They teach us so much just by being.
DeletePets do bring so much to our lives, don't they? SO fun seeing all your cute cats. I can see why you still miss them.
ReplyDeleteYes, even those who are gone now are still a part of my life.
DeleteGrowing up in NYC housing, we weren't allowed to have either cats or dogs. I went through a collection of goldfish, a couple of canaries, and finally, a beloved parakeet, as I grew into adulthood. I haven't had any pets in years. If I did I would like to own birds again. We'll have to see what the future brings. My son and his partner have two cats and I have to admit I'm much more of a cat person than a dog person.
ReplyDeleteBirds can be quite wonderful companions. If you have the opportunity, I would encourage you to add one - or more - to your life.
DeleteWe had cats until we had kids. I would love to have cats now but my husband really doesn't want any more pets.
ReplyDeleteThat's too bad. I really can't imagine my life without pets, but to each his own.
Delete