All the Important Life Lessons I Know, I've Learned From My Cat

I grew up the third of four children, and as I grew, I learned to avoid conflict at all cost. Before I knew it I was an adult, and my over-concern for people-pleasing was getting me into trouble. I was exhausted, emotionally drained, and close to burnout in almost every aspect of my life. Enter Scout.

Not only does this kitten have clear boundaries, but he communicates them well. If he doesn't want to be picked up, he will let you know. If he is done hanging out, then boy, he is done hanging out. Scout is clear on what he does and doesn't want, and he makes it known in a way that is impossible to ignore. By watching his example, I discovered that setting boundaries isn't selfish. In fact, it saves everybody a lot of grief and wasted effort. Now, I set boundaries just like Scout. Though usually with less meowing and fewer scratches.

Like many people, I sometimes am of the mindset that resting is a waste of time. I feel the need to constantly be doing something, otherwise I feel lazy and dissatisfied. Mr. Scout, on the other hand, can and does sleep up to 16 hours a day, and still finds time for his many important activities (jumping in and out of boxes, washing himself, eating, and typing on his typewriter). In fact, it becomes clear from observing him that Scout can be so active and curious because he prioritizes rest. Just because you're not actively doing something doesn't mean that time is wasted. Rest is important. Take time for a cat nap, preferably with an actual cat.

If you struggle with mental health, especially with depression, you know how quickly certain things like hygiene can go out the window. Why should I bother to shower if I can't even get out of the house? I've learned from watching Scout, though, that good hygiene is its own reward. Scout takes great joy in his daily baths, and he'll take them wherever and whenever he wants.

I know when I take care of my hygiene, even if I'm depressed, it makes me feel better. Simple things like flossing or taking a shower can improve my mood dramatically and make it easier for me to go about my day.

As I grow older, I sometimes struggle with the feeling that I've already experienced everything I'm going to experience. Maybe I've already seen everything that matters.

Luckily, my dear fluffy kitten is a perfect tonic against this apathy. Everything is interesting to Scout, from a strange new noise to the way the light moves along the wall. Even if he's seen a toy a hundred times before, he still approaches it with a new perspective (often with adorable results). There is always more we can learn from the world. There is new information around every corner, we just have to keep our eyes peeled and our ears perked.

Something else about Scout is that he loves to be in the sink. After a long day of napping, he'll just hop on up and take possession of the porcelain. I don't know why, but he loves it. Scout is not afraid to be himself, even if the rest of the world might think it's odd or doesn't make sense.

It's easy for me sometimes to pretend that I am not who I am or to compromise my eccentricities to ease an awkward situation. But over time, these little sacrifices add up and gradually erode my sense of self. Scout teaches me to believe oddness can be beautiful and that strange can be endearing.