How A Friend Helps You Fight Your Demons

A few weeks ago, I was walking down the stairs in AUB to get to the Greenfield. One of the many cats on the campus followed me in my descent, circling around me and meowing at every step. I knelt down and stroked its chin. It seemed to enjoy it. I did too. It made me feel special, because that cat chose to follow me. It made me feel loved.

I thought it was silly for me to feel this way, to feel special and loved just because a cat came towards me – and not another person – and asked for my attention and affection. I thought it was related to my low self-esteem and self-worth.

A few days ago, one of my friends had a similar encounter with a stray cat, and I told her how I felt in similar situations. “Habibi,” she said endearingly. “It may not only have to do with your self-esteem, but with a high sensitivity and appreciation of special and tender moments with nature and creatures, human or otherwise, which I find very intelligent and touching.”

Talk about perceptions. Perspectives too.

– Photo by Pat Sy