What Santini Taught Me

Santini was a force, a proud, adventurous and loving gentle giant. He stood regally among cats. His breed, a Maine Coon, accounted for his large frame and led to his nickname, “Mr. Big Paws.” I remember when we took him home from the Humane Society when he was just 11 months old. My husband was expecting a kitten and was shocked to see that Santini was larger than our 12 year old cat. 

Santini taught us so much about the things that count in life. Loving your people. Staying present and being there no matter what. Having fun. I am so thankful for the precious time we shared and for the opportunity to develop routines together. Every morning, Santini would nudge his nose against me to make sure I got up to feed him. He’d wait impatiently as I made coffee first. He would lay next to me on the couch as I read. We would go outside together to get the mail. He’d lick butter off my finger. When the day felt hectic, he’d remind me that naps were better than ok. He was so cuddly and loved to be held. Whether I felt sad or joyful, Santini’s embrace enveloped me in a net of love that was undeniable.

Perhaps you live with an animal that is part of your family – a trusted companion who’s presence fills you with love and appreciation. Take some extra time with them today if you can. Unfortunately most animals leave us too soon. Their legacy and love remain though in the memory of every loyal animal parent.

If you have a story or acknowledgement about your companion animal that you’d like to share, I’d love to hear it.

If this is something that hits home for you I wrote a book in 2001 called, What Animals Teach Us. You can download a complimentary chapter here.