Who has impacted me to be who I am today?
In September of 2019, a new member of my family was welcomed. That's my precious 4 month old cat, Dots. We named her Dots since she ironically has one dot between her eyes. Dots was a gift from my dad. Since then, Dots has had a great impact on who I’ve come to be. She taught me patience, responsibility, and most importantly to love. I will describe my relationship with my Dots till this day as my daughter/ best friend.
Dots, my furry companion, has taught me a valuable lesson in being patience. Particularly through dealing with her messes and understanding that she is not here solely for my entertainment. Her messes may range from scattered cat fur and litter on the floor to her occasional habit of knocking things down. While these may seem like simple problems with straightforward solutions, they can have a significant impact on the overall environment if not handled patiently. Ignoring her messes or expressing frustration can affect both the atmosphere and Dots herself, as she is unable to learn how to clean up after herself. As a result, I have taken on the responsibility of finding routines to maintain a clean living environment for the both of us. Additionally, patience extends to learning what makes her feel comfortable during activities such as bathing and nail cutting. Through trial and error, we have established a mutual understanding. It is also crucial to acknowledge that patience involves recognizing that Dots is an independent being, not here solely for my amusement. I have learned not to force her to play or alter her appearance for my pleasure. Instead, I respect her own self expression and allow her to decide when she is in the mood for play or seeks affection. These experiences with Dots have profoundly influenced me, shaping me into a more patient individual.
Dots has many necessities she can't provide herself. That's why I have the responsibility to stock her food, clean, and buy her day to day needs. She taught me to be responsible by knowing how to budget money to buy her cat tree, stocking up her food which includes wet food, dry food and snacks and also buying her cat litter. Cat trees are important for her private sleeping area, filling her nails by scratching on it and exercise. Although, many stores have cat trees that can go up to 200 $. I was willing to buy one for less but yet useful. As for food, it's mandatory that I try to get her healthy food so she can stay strong. Cat litter is self explanatory; it allows her to use the bathroom and keeps our room clean if I change it every two weeks. Having her has made me a responsible pet parent.
As for love, she has taught me to cherish every second I have with her. Before getting my Dots I used to have another cat, named Negrito. He was a 1 year old tuxedo cat. Unfortunately I saw him die in my arms from natural causes, a traumatic experience. He taught me a great lesson as well, to appreciate the ones you love until you lose them. I do admit I wasn't the best pet parent. Which I extremely regret, he didn't deserve anything but love and patience. Dots is an angel who came at the right time to change me. I promised since Negrito's death I will never become or be a neglective pet parent. I will always have the idea that animals are innocent. Truly pure souls, especially compared to humans. My mom has told me, animals can connect with you and feel your energy. I’ve noticed my Dots own ways in showing me, she appreciates me. Which warms my heart and makes me feel special. She always gets excited when I come home from school or work. She jumps on my back or meows until I pet her. She finds ways to cuddle with me when I sleep or follows me around my home. I try to be the best for her, I work so I can provide her good food, and not be lazy to keep her away from a negative environment like a unclean home. My Dots will always be my weakness, the one I completely become soft. Therefore, Dots has had a great impact on who I’ve come to be. She taught me patience, responsibility, and most importantly to love.
