More often than not, I say goodbye to the cats I have looked after with a sense of sadness: as if I will miss them… Sometimes the sit has been too short to establish a bond. It’s mainly after having spent more time with a cat that this sentiment is often catching me off guard. Especially if said animals appear to like humans and are looking for my company. By sitting on my lap, or right next to me on the couch, by waiting me up behind the door when I arrive home in the evening, or me meowing at me whenever they need something. Food, to play, some attention, it doesn’t really matter.
But as a teacher with over twenty years of experience in bidding farewell each year, I’ve been around the block a few times! The parting with the very first class I ever taught is seared into my brain. Two little boys carrying a plant larger than themselves to offer to me, it made my eyes brim with tears. It was first as well as the last time this ever happened to me. After all, no matter how great a class and a year was, there will always be a new one, with all of its pro’s and con’s. It’s the same with cats. However cute and fun they may have been, all of the cats I sat had plenty of food to eat and a warm spot to sleep. Thanks to their owners.
And I, I will always find another cat to sit and to love… So many kitties, so little time!
