While everyone else had a dog or cat growing up, yours truly had, and still has, a pet parrot. Although my little buddy cannot read or talk (yes, not all parrots can talk), here’s an open letter to my pal who I miss dearly now that I’m away at college.
Dearest Kirby,
I was six years old when we adopted you. Notice that I didn’t say “buy” because that would objectify you. By saying “adopt,” you’re seen as more of a part of our family. When I walked into the parrot store, you were a mere three months old and the size of my hand. Your beak was not fully developed (oh, how I miss those days), so you only nibbled my fingers. You made the cutest little sounds and would cuddle up to me.
Bringing you home was so exciting because I was an only child and our house now had a new dynamic. Obviously, you were a bit scared at first, but who wouldn’t be? When you’re a being that’s approximately seven inches tall, surrounded by three humans, and in a house that’s 10,000 times the size of your previous cage, I would be frightened too. However, before we knew it, you were fully adjusted and you became a part of the family.
Waking up in the morning and hearing your chirps, having you play on the dining room table while I ate, and saying hi to you when I came home from school were all normal parts of my routine.
Before college began, I never really put into perspective how much I would miss you. Not to sound rude, but I thought that I would only miss mom and dad because it never really dawned on me how important you are in my life.
Pets bring a sort of joy to humans that people are not always capable of bringing. Pets have this sort of innocence and an instinctive sense of sympathy that people sometimes lack. Before I left for college, whenever I was feeling down or upset, you, my little friend, were always there for me.
Although you can’t talk, your presence alone was comforting and I think that’s more important than any words that a person could offer. You knew when something was wrong and whether it was by coming near me or doing a funny trick on your cage, you were, and still are, able to cheer me up.
Now that I’m away at school, my daily routine is very different, especially since it doesn’t involve you. I’m thoroughly convinced that my friends think that I’m a crazy bird-lady (which I sort of am) since I constantly talk about you. Mom will Facetime me and turn the camera on you so that I can say hi. I then proceed to screenshot you, show the photos to my friends, and talk about you. My little parrot, you’re more popular among my friends than you know.
Kirby, my parrot, you are irreplaceable. You’re the best pet and the best “brother” that anyone could ever ask for. Despite the fact that I’m away at college, knowing that you’ll be at home when I come to visit gives me such peace of mind. No silly boy can ever replace you. I love you, pal. Thank you for being the most entertaining and heartwarming creature.
Love always,
Your owner and sister,
Ava
