Everyone likes to believe that their cat is the best cat, but I know for a fact that mine is the best of all time.

We started with an impulsive trip to the humane society in my hometown, about a hour away from school. I was putting off writing that essay that I would eventually have to do either way, but when I looked at my roommate and declared that I was going to adopt a cat that exact day, I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

And then I was looking at a beautiful black cat with piercing eyes named Kylo, when my friend called out to me from across the building. "We have to get this one."

You were a thin cat, a shy cat, with a shaved belly post surgery and a single eye. Your fur hadn't grown out yet, so you could see the clear line where your skin had been sewn together where your eye once was. Even though you didn't know me, when I reached through the cage door and you rolled over onto your back so I could scratch your belly, you stole my heart.

After I filled out the papers and before I had even gotten approved for adoption, I had stocked up on cat toys, food, litter, and a bed. I knew that you were supposed to be my cat.

We've spent eight months together, both growing and probably hating each other most of the time. You've gone through another surgery and I've gone through finals, so we've both suffered together. I've had you sleep on my stomach and you've been scratched behind your ear, so I guess we've had good moments as well.

When it comes down to it, a cat has taught me more about love and responsibility than anyone ever could. We've dealt with each other as he has torn things off of my walls and literally eaten my chemistry homework.

I have learned patience and responsibility. I have learned to love unconditionally. I have learned to take care of something and someone other than myself.

On the other side of our relationship, I offered him a home with a warm bed, plenty of food and water, and a safe environment where he could play and sleep to his heart's content.

If you don't believe in love, maybe you just haven't found the right cat (or dog, fish, bird, etc.) yet.