A Furry Blessing and Lesson

It was 03.08.2020. I was doing my jemuran when I saw this poor kitten, lying while panting on an old wooden chair in our kebun-belakang-rumah. The time I first let Woody in, I had no intention of keeping him. I called all the possible cat shelters in my area, but all of them rejected my request. I couldn't even pat a cat then, I used to think that they are some loving creatures, I hate seeing them in hunger and cold, but I still kept my distance, I was still very afraid.

Woody was almost blind, with nothing but bones and flaky skin. He couldn't meow or take in food because his mouth was covered with ulcers. He was diagnosed with so many conditions that I can't even recall the names. He was only the size of my hand, and when I lifted him, I felt nothing, he was as light as a feather. I was afraid, I used cloth whenever I hold him as he needed to be cleaned and fed four times a day. I was home alone at the time with zero skills or knowledge of handling a cat, let alone a sick one. I really felt like it was impossible. But the moment Woody sat on my lap and purred, I had nothing in mind but an instant love and belief that I want to take care of him. It was single-handedly the best decision I have ever made in my life.

By His grace, Woody grew healthily. I am beyond grateful, Alhamdulillah. Woody would have probably been running around catching butterflies in His paradise, but I genuinely believe that more than Woody needs me, I need him. He sent Woody to me.  Woody is simply a joy to the whole household.  He is silly but also brotherly. Fast forward, we now have more furry family members, Elly and Kiki (to which each will have their own story).

I felt like I could take care of any strays, forgetting my limitation, and the fact that He is the one that made it easy. Until Badut came to our compound, with a condition far worse than any cat I have ever seen. He asked for our help. My younger brothers were kind enough to bring him to the vet every single day for almost two weeks before I decided that we have reached our limit. I could not save him. We agreed with the doctor's advice to put him to sleep. I do not think I can explain the pain and guilt. To which I can only pray that he is now running around in His paradise catching butterflies, eating only fresh food, sleeping on his very own giant soft bed. Forgive us Badut, forgive me. 

I used to say that I want to save all the strays. But now I know I couldn't. Sadly, I too have a limitation. But God, on stormy and rainy days, please give them a shady shelter.  Please let them have unlimited access to fresh water.  Please meet them with kind souls that could offer them a pet and good food. And if they really had suffered here, grant them happiness in the hereafter.