After a decade and a half of major life struggles while owning cats (or them owning me), I want to say that having Kingsford, Lacey, and other cats have made it bearable for me. They help me deal with tough times with a sense of humor. People ask me wouldn't it be better if I didn't own cats. I tell them that having pets helps me cope. Even though Kingsford is diabetic and it costs me good money, which was and is scarce, I do it gladly because it is the right thing to do. It allows me to keep my humanity. Even though Lacey and Kingsford may have ruined pieces of furniture, the companionship they provide is worth it. Having them meow and both hop into my lap when I sit down is like taking a Xanax, Prozac, Zoloft or other pharmaceutical wonder drug. Their purrs and headbutts are calming, soothing, and any other synonym you can think of in the Roget's Thesaurus.

When I feel sad, depressed, and worthless - they are there. They meow as if to say don't worry you have us and can we help you feel better. They are there and remind me that they depend on me. Having them help retain my focus and keeps me going during difficult times. I appreciate their presence and the humor they provide. They help me keep a sense of empathy and understanding.

In the good times, they were there. In difficult times, they were there. As I got older, they were there. They were there when I needed them and I will be there when they need me. They have taught me that I need to be there when others need me. Without them and my family, I could have turned into a selfish burnt out cynic whose only concern was how I could get others to serve my interests.

Copyright © William T. Chandler
June 2006