I swore up, down, left, and right that I would NEVER own a cat. Cats do not reciprocate love and affection like a pet should. How could anyone ever love an animal that is angry, reclusive, and cynical? They just stalk around the house and eat. Why would anyone spend money on a cat when they can have a cuddly, friendly puppy?

Puppies have big personalities and can go everywhere with you! They are loyal and are proven to help with mental health. Dogs sit around all day waiting for their owners to come home. They are pure creatures that were strictly put on this earth to do nothing but love. I strongly felt that only dogs could provide the safety and emotional, physical, and mental security.

Then I adopted Woodrow.

Woodrow is a kitten that was found on our campus by a professor and the PAWS for Care group. I work at the Center for Service Learning and Community Engagement who fostered the kitten. My job had been to hold the feral kittens and play with them until they were comfortable with people. I was expected to do the same with Woodrow. Everyone said that he was the best kitten that has ever came to the Center. I mean I had thought all of our kittens were cute, but I was still not a cat person.

Then I was handed Woodrow.

I instantly fell in love.

Woodrow is now living at home where he has his own room! He is so happy!

Since then, I have seen how cats create a happier household. They are just as capable of love and compassion as their canine counterpart. They may be more aloof, but they can cuddle and appreciate humans just as much as dogs can. They want to play with their humans and show love.

I may still be a dog person, but kitties hold a special place in my heart!

I have had sever anxiety, depression, OCD, and more mental health issues since I was young. There were many times where I felt that my life was absolutely not worth living, College puts a mental, emotional, and physical strain on everyone. It is definitely not an easy time. People that suffer with me know how much more difficult daily tasks can be when you feel that you have nothing to live for.

I felt that I would never be happy. All I have ever wanted out of life is to have a family. I never wanted to have a career. My passion is taking care of kids and my home. I know that feminists would say that I am what is wrong with women (more articles to come) but I could be the best at my job, and still be more fulfilled by having a happy family.

I felt that I would never have that family, and I would never be a good mother.

Woodrow has filled my heart and helped me to be able to envision my future as a great mom. I am happy. I have something to work towards. I am reminded that I am in college to help provide for my future. I cannot wait to leave college with a degree and be able to start my life. Thank you Little Man for helping me remember why I am still here.