I used to have a cat named, Zsa Zsi.

She was Siamese and full of fire, and not one to be ‘told’ what to do.

She also has a nasty habit of scratch-gashing her way through this world. Trust me, I have the ‘war wounds’ to prove it.

Oh, how I used to chase that cat – for hours, sometimes. And when I’d finally catch her in my arms – I’d squeeze with all of my might.

Generally, she was quite tolerant of my ‘little one’ ways. Until one day, when I held just a little too long – upsetting her need to run free. With one high pitched yowling swish – she left a four inch gash along my arm.

Oh my goodness, how I cried. Initially, from the sheer shock of the matter – as well as, that first sting of reality.

“She scratched because you held her too hard,” my Mother said. “If you love her, you must let her be free.”

It was my first lesson in understanding the true nature of things.

That is to say, in holding on – we sometimes cling. And, in doing so – we often miss the beauty of that which wishes to be revealed.

The photos above were taken just shortly thereafter  – when I offered the space for her to give of freely from heart.

And, though it may seem a silly story – it was still, an important lesson to be learned.

You see, it’s not until we’re able to ‘loosen our grip’ – that we’re able to be loved fully in return.

Namaste, my loves ~ and on this day, just a little something I learned from a kitten.