I admit I’m a touch choked up at the moment.
I received this simple email from my Dad about 10 minutes ago:
Goodbye George Aug. 1996-June2008
There’s always been a cat at my parent’s house. Not a froofy cat with a little pink bow, but an outdoor, mouse catching, rabbit terrorizing, sparrow infuriating honest-to-goodness rural cat. Their coats always a bit coarse and in need of a brushing (when they chose to tolerate it). George was no exception.
My Dad taught me that it’s ok to be a man and have a fun, loving relationship with a cat. It has to do with balance: showing emotion, compassion and friendship when it’s appropriate. There are some who would encourage the stereotype that cats are ‘feminine’ or somehow don’t fit in the truck-shotgun-dog mentality. Some kind of “Real men don’t like cats” stupidity. That’s not my Dad and it’s not me.
We make a place for pets in our lives, and we make a place for family pets when we visit family. It’s always a personal victory when the ’shy’ pet allows me to “skritch” them behind the ears or lies down on my lap. George had a crazy personality and I know he was well loved. My folks will be finding little fuzzy balls and other toys under, in and behind various pieces of furniture for years to come. And every time, he will be missed.
June 17th, 2008 at 9:02 am
This was just perfect. I hope they get a new kitty soon. The saddest would be if they decide they’re never going to have another cat.
June 18th, 2008 at 11:26 am
We’ll miss George too, and I really enjoyed your post, Chris.