
The dictionary defines contentment as the state of being mentally or emotionally satisfied with things as they are.
Socrates said: “He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have.” Yes, but I want more…
I was in a greenhouse yesterday looking at seeds and starter plants, it was really a beautiful place to be, and for almost three minutes I was content. A cat calmly strolled in and completely ignored me, or so I thought.
I remember Eckhart Tolle saying something about cats as Zen masters, so I asked this cat to teach me about contentment. Again he ignored me, but I watched him.
He walked carefully between the rows of flowers and herbs, and I wondered if he was telling me to take time to smell the flowers. Then he began eating them, and I wasn’t sure if this was a sign to eat healthier or to do whatever makes you happy.
After he finished destroying a basil plant he hopped off the table and headed to his favorite place, which was literally the best seat in the house. He lay down on some warm boards in front of a sunny window, and looked at me as if to say: take a picture it’ll last longer, and then went to sleep.
If he was trying to tell me something I missed it, and on the way home I thought about new motorcycles, mansions and yachts, just a few of the things I feel I need to be content.
But I had the whole day to do whatever I wanted, I had enough money for lunch, and I had a picture of a Zen cat.
Charles M. Schulz said: “Learn from yesterday, live for today, look to tomorrow, rest this afternoon.”
Maybe that was his message; maybe I simply needed a catnap. So I went home and took a nap in my warm bed in front of a sunny window, and it was good. Now all I need is to move into this greenhouse and start eating plants.
There’s a great shade tree to park my bike under, my yacht will be moored of course, and as Elmer J. Fudd taught us, nobody really needs a mansion.
Lovely photo and commentary. I have learned in the past two years to heed my animals as well. If they jump up when I’m in the hammock for a few moments, the stay turns into the hour. Who wants to disturb Morrie, the Scotty, who jumps up the minute I lie down. And who can stir a cat from their stomach either on couch or bed? They definitely teach us and you are smart to listen. Putting a link to this on my blog if you haven’t already..Thanks for playing along.
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Thanks again Judy. I think the key to this cats contentment is a mostly plant based diet.
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Must make for contented mice as well!
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I’m pretty sure he takes care of any mice, in his spare time.
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Which is why he puts up with that vegetarian diet, Pop!!!
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I’ve put a link to your Cat in the Window here as well: https://judydykstrabrown.com/2019/04/11/cat-in-the-window-ii-break-in/
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Don’t tell the cat he didn’t sign a release!
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Ha. Another problem with no opposable thumbs.
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I think he might have an agent for that. 😉
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There should be much more likes! 😀
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Thanks Shminke but we have to please ourselves and enjoy the process.
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