Eyes of Cats

    When I was reading Ackerman's retelling of the process of deifying Hindu idols, and the devotion that worshippers have to them, giving the divine specific foods as if they can eat, seeing the divine in things outsiders would see as humble, I was reminded of a part of my life that I don't think I have talked enough about (here). Cats, and my experience volunteering with them. 

Like Hindu deities, they cannot survive without humans giving them care, love, and affection. Like Hindu deities, they have large eyes to draw people in. Yet, there is currently a pet homelessness crisis with rising costs of both housing and animal care, and a lack of regard for pets with special or high support needs, as many want the "perfect" pet with no adverse conditions that could be hard to manage. Yet, in my experience volunteering at Our Companions, an animal rescue for animals with high support needs, many can be the most wonderful pets if only given a chance.

I can't describe the specific emotion I feel when I look at a cat in need, mine or one I am volunteering with. I feel such a strong emotion of empathy and nurturing-ness that makes me want to care for it, and there are many cats in need out there. Luckily, all of these cats have staff for food and water and medication, yet cats need more than that: they need socialization too, and that's where volunteers come in. We get to socialize with the cats on their own terms. Some like to play, some like to be pet in various ways. Some have very specific rituals when seeing them that come from their histories and trauma. Yet, when I look at the physical change in their demeanors when they feel happy to have human connection, it is worth it and rewarding:)

(All pictures taken literally yesterday, all these cats are adoptable in Connecticut!)