Big Manly Men Who Are Powerless In The Face Of Small Animals
I love this about Gregg. He is a guy-guy from Detroit, but he is basically my Chinese Crested Aida's manslave. (And, in general, he's dog putty.)
Hannah Louise Poston writes in "Modern Love" in The New York Times about her depressed boyfriend, who wasn't exactly hot on the idea of her bringing home a kitten -- until said kitty came home with her. Love her description:
When the kitten tried to vogue, swoon and crab-leap sideways all at once, consequently tripping over her paws, I think Joe's eyeballs may have rolled back into his head to reveal two glittery pink hearts pasted onto his sockets in lieu of pupils.
The reality is, needing to care for a critter gives you a purpose beyond yourself. Having Aida makes me a better person -- a little more compassionate and a little more patient. With a dog, especially when the dog's a puppy, there are daily lessons in these areas.
They bring out the best in us for sure.
I'm SCARED of spiders but I became SUPERMAN when a spider as big as me went at my newest kitten.
Practically dented the floor (did I mention I am scared of spiders?).
Wife asked me "Sure you killed it?".
Bob in Texas at August 16, 2015 5:40 AM
Bob, that's hilarious.
Amy Alkon at August 16, 2015 6:17 AM
They definitely give you a reason to get up in the morning, and they're good companionship. Between the Shiba and the calico, there's never a dull moment in my apartment.
Daghain at August 16, 2015 10:04 AM
I am always suspicious of anyone who says, "I don't like
dogs." you don't need to own a dog or be super mushy about them.
But, if you flat out don't like them I think you can't have empathy for the more vulnerable. I would go so far as to say you don't have a heart.
Yes, there are those who would disagree with that assessment but it is my personal opinion.
Jay at August 16, 2015 1:19 PM
Jay: I am always suspicious of anyone who says, "I don't like dogs."
Hmm, I'm heard that Muslims don't like dogs; in fact, it is rumored that they put them in zoos.
'nough said.
charles at August 16, 2015 5:39 PM
Real men have a tortoise.
Real men clip roses for tortoise treats.
Jay J. Hector at August 18, 2015 9:51 AM
Jay - I totally agree. I am a sucker for all animals, the elderly and kids under 12 because they are often helpless to the cruelties of people.
I am a cat owner who loves dogs and long for the day when my life is dog friendly.
Those who hate cats have never had one. The key is acceptance. Four cats In 20 years and 4 different personalities. I love them all unconditionally and they have all been close to me, including the one that took 10 years to enjoy having a human hand touch her pristine fur (or perhaps it's my fault it took me so long to figure out long strokes from forehead to tail tip was what she liked?). Even in her don't touch me phase, she was entertaining and loved play and snuggling with her elderly step-sister who loved babying her. People who don't like cats aware those that require conformity and acknowledgment. I don't and they acknowledge me! 🐯
CatherineM at August 19, 2015 6:13 PM
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