I was surprised to learn how much I would love having pets.
I grew up in the country where animals were seen as work. We cared for them, but they were a means to an end: a dog to help on the farm, a cat to keep the mice away, livestock that would eventually be sold.
When I moved in with my partner, I got two new feline room-mates and I've been pleasantly surprised to learn that I love both having pets and doing the work of caring for them. They are tremendous company during long days at my desk. They're a constant reminder to rest and be more embodied. And, petting or playing with them is the best anxiety/stress reliever I've ever experienced.
Yes, I do have to clean up their shit. But it takes 5 minutes a day and the rest of the time, they are a joy to be around. I love this line from Jean Cocteau: “I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul.”
I was surprised to learn how much I would love having pets.
I grew up in the country where animals were seen as work. We cared for them, but they were a means to an end: a dog to help on the farm, a cat to keep the mice away, livestock that would eventually be sold.
When I moved in with my partner, I got two new feline room-mates and I've been pleasantly surprised to learn that I love both having pets and doing the work of caring for them. They are tremendous company during long days at my desk. They're a constant reminder to rest and be more embodied. And, petting or playing with them is the best anxiety/stress reliever I've ever experienced.
Yes, I do have to clean up their shit. But it takes 5 minutes a day and the rest of the time, they are a joy to be around. I love this line from Jean Cocteau: “I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul.”