Kali-Ma loves all the seasons. She walks in the snow of winter and plays in the leaves of fall. Springtime with Kali-Ma though is an inspiration. Today was the perfect spring day; sunny, 60 degrees, not a cloud in the sky, and a breeze blowing full of the scent of flowers in bloom. As always, she brought joy to my day and smiles to those that saw her out and about.

Kali-Ma has a sweet, gentle curiosity about all things. She walks through the flowers with wonderment, stopping to smell each one. Even the tiny insects flying from plant to plant seemed to fascinate her. She gently pauses while walking to life her head to the sky and feel the breeze on her face. I stand by patiently watching this 10lb miracle of life that reminds me of the good there is in life.

While we sat on the park bench numerous people passing made the same comment to us: “I wish my cat would do that. I wish I could take my cat walking with me”. A family of visitors from California came upon on as I walked with Kali-Ma in her stroller. They were amazed at her disposition and shared stories with us of their cats. I explained to them that most cats can be encouraged and taught to enjoy the outdoors safely with their owners.

You can read more about this subject at: Enjoying The Outdoors With Your Cat

We relaxed on a park bench for over an hour by the river. i gave Kali-Ma her favorite Inaba cat treat and then she settled in. Birds and ducks passed by, and Kali-Ma carelessly watched in comfort not moving one inch. Dogs pulled on owner’s leashes trying to get to her and she gave them all a look of “I could care less”. Again, people passed us in amazement.

I thought to myself “you are amazing Kali-Ma’. She sees the awe of nature and simple pleasures of life with not a care for anything going on around her. If only I could live my life each day, like I do on a park bench with Kali-Ma. She is sweet and kind, yet able to ignore the things that one would assume would stress her.

Seeing springtime through the eyes of Kali-Ma brings a greater appreciation for nature and day to day life.  So often the precious moments I spend with her outside are teaching moments. One way or another she always touches my soul and inspires me to live in gratitude.  

As I have so often stated, Kali-Ma truly is the very best part of me. I hope to see more cats along the trail with their owners. Perhaps my little angel can inspire someone else to enjoy time outdoors with their cat.