Glutton For Punishment

  It seems that one of my worst traits is that I am a glutton for punishment.  Either that or I have a huge soft spot for critters.  For most of my life, I have taken in, taken care of or, generally, just taken critters that no one else wants.  Why?  Because of that stupid soft spot in my heart that tells me that someone needs to care for all of the throwaway pets of the world.  That someone is me, obviously.

  The old cat that was living back beneath the shed has now moved to the back porch.  Although he still limps, his overall health has greatly improved.  He was painfully malnourished, full of scratches. and had a mangled front paw.  Daily feeding, worm meds and kind words have all encouraged him to trust me a bit more.  Hopefully soon, he will allow me to check that foot but, for now, I feel as though he has a better life than a few months back.  

  The "punishment" part of this whole situation is that I will grow attached (already have) to this animal just like I have all the others.  It will become part of the family.  The cat is old.  The cat is injured.  It is obvious that he will not be with us long and, once again, my heart will be broken.  It is so hard to ever think of losing yet another critter friend but, facing the alternative of not helping them, I have no choice.  The poor animal needs to be helped and loved after being so mistreated by his former family.  People do indeed aggravate me at times.  So welcome to the family, Mr. Cat.  (Yes, I do need to find a suitable name for this friend.)