Over the past decade of harmonious cohabitation with my lovely cat, Oliver, I have learned a thing or two about life from him. He has survived through the traumatic days my family has tried to force him into tiny Christmas sweaters and my younger brother thinking he was a comfortable pillow to rest his five-year-old head on. Through these memories, there have come valuable lessons.
1. If you deserve something, it is worth the fight.
Every morning at exactly 5:30 a.m. as well as every night at 7:30 p.m., Oliver’s incessant yawls would boom through my house to remind all of us that, indeed, it is time for him to be fed. He could not be silenced until he got what he knew he wanted, and that resilience, although mildly annoying, inspires me to do the same. Maybe don’t meow in the face of injustice, but definitely let your voice be heard.
2. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when others are facing a hard time, is to comfort them.
Through the several heartbreaks and stressful times, my cat always has a way to just curl up next to me and let me chill with him. There is a peaceful feeling knowing there is someone there to comfort you even if they don’t say anything. Whenever you see a friend or a roommate struggling, take a moment and just let them know you are there for them, and I promise you they will be very appreciative.
3. Naps are never something to be ashamed of.
I’ll admit, the majority of the time I see my cat around the house, I see him in some sort of slumber. In fact, 2/3 of a cat’s life is spent sleeping, which is actually life goals. I am always fascinated with how cats can sleep so long, but after a long day, there is nothing better than just curling up in bed for a few minutes to feel more refreshed and renewed.
4. If you look closely, there is a beautiful world out there.
My cat is one of millions of cats which is entranced by the beautiful intricacies of the earth just outside their window. Cats can stare outside for hours at birds flying and leaves rustling and still find it interesting. Rather than being consumed with stress, cats learn to appreciate the atmosphere; something we sometimes forget to think about. Maybe we can learn how to find the elegance of the world around us more by just looking up and absorbing it in every once in a while.
5. Don’t let your initial judgments dictate how you view others.
The moment someone walks through the door, there is a 50/50 chance my cat will run up to you sounding like a purring machine or will completely see right through you. Unfortunately, cats stick to that predisposition and refuse to budge from it. However, it’s pretty unfair to just limit someone based off of your first impression. College is a time to learn how to get along with new people and shape your beliefs, so completely ignoring someone new is not the way to go.
6. Even the most simple things in life can be the most cherished.
Okay, so, I’ll admit; every time I see a cute collar for my cat, I need to buy it. I’m not kidding, he has close to a dozen collars (and a few matching bows) to match his mood and style. Just like cat collars, your favorite fashion staple or beloved shoes can bring out your self confidence and showcase your personality.
7. Live in the moment.
Despite the cliché, there is nothing more adorable than a kitten intensely absorbed in playing with a string. There is no hesitation or fear just utter joy in the moment. Although this is easier said than done, mindfulness in the present will help the late night laughs or midnight adventures not fade away into obscurity.
8. Never give up on your dream.
My cat is an indoor only cat, but does that stop him from engaging in full hunting mode every time there is a bird outside within a fifty foot radius? No. Despite everything that may seem in the way of reaching his goal, he is not deterred and approaches it with the same fervent determination every time. Whenever facing a cross roads where you could give up or trek forward, choose the latter because you never know if that time is when you finally catch your prey.
9. Make the most of your “nine lives.”
Cats are notoriously resilient animals. The amount of times I have seen cats fall from great heights and land on their feet without fail is infinite. There is a whole subculture on YouTube dedicated to cat videos depicting this very phenomenon. Yet, every time they fall down they get up with their lives in tact (more or less). Living without inhibition can help maximize what life has to offer and challenge you to get out of your comfort zone.
10. RBF is not something to be ashamed of.
Cats have it. I have it. You probably have it. Your great Aunt Karen has it. Your Grandpa Pete has it. This chronic condition is totally normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Whenever you enter the library for an intense study sesh or you are hanging out with your friends on the quad, your countenance is nothing to be concerned about.11. Curiosity doesn’t always kill the cat.
Cats have the habit of finding new and old places alike interesting. The same house can be explored for hours by cats to find new hiding and nap spots. Although it is not recommended to go to every place with the quest of a good napping spot in mind, it is not a bad idea to find answers to questions you have always had or take that class to discover something new. College is a time for great intellectual growth and looking at every opportunity with an open mind might lead you to some of the best and most unexpected discoveries.
Despite all the scratches and hisses, cats can teach us a thing or two about how to live a less stressful and more productive life. So, next time you see a cat, don't be afraid and maybe learn something valuable for the future.
