The antics of cats and dogs often make people jealous. Wouldn’t you like your daily routine to consist of scampering around outside, playing with toys and having someone shower you with attention?
In addition to inspiring wishing-you-were-them-for-a-day syndrome, these animals’ frolicking and other characteristic behaviors remind people of the simple things in life.
Cats single-mindedly pursue what they want, relax regularly, possess self-confidence and are picky about whom they trust. Dogs unabashedly show affection, protect their loves ones and easily forgive and forget.
When cats see something that interests them, they chase it. People should also chase after their dreams and keep their eyes focused on a target.
Cats pursue their target, such as a bird or mouse, wholeheartedly, racing through neighbors’ yards or up trees in their frantic pursuit.
But they only put forth effort when they covet something-they know when to conserve their energy.
In a similar fashion, dogs pursue cats, squirrels and mail carriers. They love the thrill of the hunt.
Despite their often action-packed days, cats more frequently experience languorous ones. They love to lounge around and sprawl out on the furniture and floor.
Take a cue from cats and relax. Unless you’re pursuing an urgently desired objective, slow down and enjoy life.
Exhibiting their unhurried lifestyles, cats strut around like nobility. Although their swaggering may give them a snobby reputation, it also gives them an air of dignity and importance.
People should also saunter with poise and confidence. They should assume a self-assured demeanor and walk around as if they own the place, wherever they go. Nobody likes a wallflower.
While acting debonair, one should remember how to act toward other people. Cats are picky about whom they trust. People should also be wary of strangers.
As Jack Byrnes said in “Meet the Parents,” “Cats make you work for their affection. They don’t sell out the way dogs do.”
Be polite to strangers, but avoid meaningless interactions. Decide who deserves attention and approach with caution.
Although Byrnes scorns dogs for their unbiased distribution of friendliness, dogs deserve respect for treating everyone so well. They provide comfort to people by assuring them of their importance.
Even an angry bark from a dog acknowledges your presence, whereas a cat may ignore you.
Dogs wait anxiously for their owners to come home so that they can enthusiastically greet them. Dogs show that they genuinely miss their owners when they leave.
Nobody that you care about should ever doubt your affection for them. People should strive to be friendly toward everyone and especially cheerful toward loved ones.
Like dogs, people should also be loyal to their best friends. They should show protectiveness and always come to the rescue of friends in need.
Even when you hurt a dog’s feelings, your pet completely forgives you and forgets your mistake. All it takes is a little extra TLC to make amends.
When someone hurts you and apologizes profusely and genuinely, forgive and forget. Do not use their transgression as an excuse to treat them differently in the future.
The next time you see a cat or dog romping or relaxing, remember that you can live the easy life too. And give the dog a bone or the cat some catnip to thank them for reminding you.
Jenn Rousey is a senior English, French and communication major.
Categories:
Learn from cats, dogs
Jenn Rousey / Opinion Editor
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March 5, 2004
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