Has My Litter Box Gone?
Ah yes, the joys of home maintenance are shared by everyone, including the pets. In preparation for the drywall, I moved the cats’ food, water and litter box into my bedroom where the cats could hunker down. Both cats immediately found the food and water, but Zoey couldn’t seem to locate the litter box. She kept going to its usual place, looking around, sniffing and crying.
“Come, Zoey,” I called, trying to lead her into my bathroom. She would get to the bedroom door and stop, then go back or just lie down.
Now, it’s a priority with me that the cats can find their box. So, I picked her up and carried her to the bathroom. She was furious with me and let me know. And she immediately bolted when I put her down. After that, there was no way she would follow me anywhere.
Fortunately, Jenna knew what to do. She coaxed Zoey into a laundry basket. Zoey likes riding in a laundry basket: it makes her feel like royalty. Now Jenna could carry her into the bathroom and show her the box. Situation resolved. Crisis averted.
It didn’t occur to me until the next day that the litter box had only been moved to the other side of the door and wall. I wonder now if Zoey could smell it even though she couldn’t see or find it. Poor kitty! First humans play “hide the box,” then get impatient and manhandle cats who were just trying to figure things out. So unfair.
I have since apologized.
**********
Oh, Lord, I too am a creature of habit like my cat. I resist change, insist on my own way, and complain when You try to help me adjust to a different reality. Thank You for Your patience with me. Remind me that You do meet my needs and, if I seem to be missing something, to look to see if You are showing me which way to go. Because I want to follow You. Amen
God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course.
Give me insight so I can do what you tell me—
my whole life one long, obedient response.
Psalm 119:32-34 The Message (MSG)