3 Aug 2021
Divina, the aging shelter cat always perks up when visitor approaches her enclosure.
It doesn’t matter that her fur is unkempt and her whiskers are snotty.
She’ll make an effort to totter from her sleeping space towards anyone that stops by her enclosure without any idea if you’ll still be there by the time she makes the distance to say “hello.”
The life force emanating from this cat’s shrunken frame is unmistakable. It has so far attracted a regular visitor who has a Phd to give her special attention even as he’s charmed and surrounded by many cuter and fatter kitties.
Yesterday Divina’s love for life attracted a professional groomer to drop by.
Moved by her gentle spirit, and encouraged by the glorious morning sunlight, the groomer felt that it was the right time to give the old cat her well deserved spa. Permission from her caregiver was sought and given.
Deftly & decisively, matted knots and dead skins were removed, and dirt filled nails threatening to maim were trimmed.
Shampoo and warm shower followed to wash off all offending residues that had weighed her down. At the sink, I found myself giving thanks to Mother Water.
Back to her enclosure, the ancient cat purred and closed her eyes in dreamy bliss as she was being fluffed & towelled dried.
Yesterday was the Groomer’s day off. And she had chosen to spend a part of her rest & play to serve someone who cannot pay.
I believe with or without the cleaning, Divina’s spirit is pure and loving.
But in the grooming of Divina, I felt we’re in some ways grooming ourselves to be free from impediments & judgements. 🙏
Lisa Ong 