Smokey And The Rabbit
“We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.”
Photo by Sherry Martin
We adopted him when he was four months old. His given name was Chip. But that didn't fit him. He was Smokey from that day in August when our lives were forever joined.
He was a rescue kitten flown in from Texas to a no-kill shelter in Colorado. He obviously was experienced in outdoor living. While some may disapprove of indoor/outdoor cats, we instinctively knew confining Smokey to indoor living would kill his spirit. He lived to breathe the fresh outdoor air and experience the excitement and thrill of nature.
I never tire of watching him process the world around him. He's smart; he has a vocabulary and understanding of several important words, like "outside," "snack," "family time," and "going bye-bye," at which point he lowers his head in disappointment. He's also articulate, and he’s never hesitant to let you know if he's hungry (snack), needs breathing space (outside), or is past due for lap time (family time).
I sit in the backyard swing in the evening as he is on "bunny watch," waiting for the rabbit that I've named Pumpkin to arrive at his usual time at dusk. He's intently watching the opening where Pumpkin typically enters the yard. I watch Pumpkin arrive from the opposite direction. The most intelligent cat I've ever known is oblivious because he doesn’t consider other possibilities but focuses solely on one thing and one entrance, while Pumpkin enjoys prime evening time in the yard. Smokey never knew he was there.
One might be the smartest cat in the neighborhood but ultimately miss the beautiful white-tailed bunny. One might be the most talented and skilled in one's chosen profession but miss the lesson to be learned.
When I'm focused only on one outcome, I can miss the significance of the moment and the positives that are happening. When I'm focused only in one direction, I may miss out on what is happening around me. When I'm focused only on me, I will miss what's happening with you.
Smokey has taught me many lessons:
Ask for what you need.
Enjoy every minute outside that you can.
Stay intentional but aware of life around you.
Show affection.
Know your name and who you are.
Welcome guests.
Remember your way home.
Be playful.
Appreciate solitude.
There are many beautiful white-tailed rabbits in life. Don't miss them. Be the person (or cat) you are meant to be.
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