10/06/2026
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One of the things that makes me most proud is watching my eldest son interact with our kittens.
Over the years, he has learned that animals aren’t here to perform for us, entertain us, or fit into our expectations. They are individuals with their own personalities, preferences, boundaries, and ways of experiencing the world.
What I love most is that he doesn’t measure a kitten’s value by how cuddly, playful, confident, or outgoing they are. He takes them exactly as they are. If a kitten wants affection, he enjoys the connection. If a kitten needs space, he respects it. If a kitten is curious, shy, cheeky, or independent, he appreciates those traits as part of who they are.
There is no expectation for the kitten to earn love by behaving a certain way. The love comes first.
I think there is something beautiful about teaching children that every living being has intrinsic value. When we encourage them to listen, observe, and respect rather than control, they learn empathy, patience, and kindness in a way that can’t be taught from a textbook.
Watching him sit quietly with a kitten, appreciating them for exactly who they are, reminds me that respect is one of the greatest gifts we can teach our children.
And that kind of gentle respectful handling early on truly brings out the absolute best in our kittens. Instead of wondering if the world is safe, they know it is and can enter the world confidently with their new family🩷
