Lessons Learned from My Cat Laverne

By Gary R. Gray

It all started at the local animal shelter. My wife, Patty, had gone looking for a cat to adopt when a little tiger cat with a light orange belly bearing dark ocelot spots took up with her. Patty was drawn to the cats sweet little face with the terracotta nose outlined in black. Her golden eyes were completely captivating.

Laverne, as she was called, was specialand remarkable. It wasnt just us. Everyone who met her commented on her loving nature, her desire to connect with people, her grace, and her apparent appreciation for everything done for her.

We didnt know at the time that she had lymphoma and we would enjoy her company for only a little less than two years.

When the diagnosis was confirmed, we were still hopeful she would be able to be with us for a while. As the treatment options began to diminish, I found myself reflecting on the sweet nature of this little kitty and all I was learning from her. Laverne was just being a loving cat, yet she exhibited many sterling traits that we all would do well to emulate.

Laverne lived her life well and illustrated the benefits of making friends, establishing connection, expressing appreciation, and maintaining relationships. In this book, you will be drawn to her appealing personality and realize that our small friend had much to teach us about living and loving well.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Jul 27, 2015
• ISBN: 9781490893891

Gary R. Gray

Gary R. Gray is an ordained deacon retired of the United Methodist Church. He is a licensed mental health counselor and certified employee assistance professional. Prior to his career in mental health, he directed music for the United Methodist Church. Gary holds a Bachelor of Music Education Degree from Stetson University, Deland, Florida; a Masters of Music in Theory and Composition from Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas and a Master of Arts in Counselor Education from University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida. A member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary for more than three decades he serves as a Chaplain in the Jacksonville area.

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Copyright © 2015 Gary R. Gray.

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ISBN: 978-1-4908-9388-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4908-9389-1 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2015911035

WestBow Press rev. date: 07/24/2015

Contents

Acknowledgements

Foreword

Introduction

1 Choose Friends Who Will Stand By You

2 Hang On To Those You Love. Let Them Know How Much You Care

3 Maximize Your Quality Time, Even If You Are Just Resting Together

4 Rest Well. Sleep Trusting That You Are Safe and Your Rest Will Not Be Disturbed

5 Reach Out For What’s Next. Leave the Sorrow Behind

6 Recognize That Life Is More Than Food

7 Refresh With Flowing Waters

8 Investigate Your Surroundings Thoroughly

9 Express Appreciation For Kindness. Be Humbly Grateful For Everything Done For You

10 Suffer With Grace. Be Present To All Who Bring Love and Meaning To Your Life

In Closing

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to many people who helped us with Laverne and who assisted in the writing of this book.

Had it not been for the diagnostic and surgical skill of Dr. Sandra Truli Springer, VMD, Laverne would not have survived the initial stages of her illness. The Staff and Doctors and Blue Pearl Animal Hospital in Clearwater, Florida did a wonderful job of extending Laverne’s life and adding to her comfort. The Staff at SEVO-Med (Southeast Veterinary Oncology and Internal Medicine) Orange Park, Florida cared for her in the last months until all treatment options had been tried. Through the last year, Dr. Michael Payne, DVM of Full Circle Animal Hospital, Callahan, Florida, who is known around town as Dr. Mike, was always available with a kind word and assistance in keeping Laverne comfortable.

As to the writing of the book, my friend Carole Barton, took an interest and offered encouragement and guidance in pursuing the project. Carole introduced me to Catherine Greenwood who edited the book. Our Pastor, Rev. Jack Varnell of Folkston United Methodist Church gave time to the project in reviewing the scriptures selected. Our longtime friends, John and Brenda Hanson read the book in its early stages and John helped select photos and edit them to see how they might look when included in the work.

Finally, Patty, deserves a great deal of credit. She spared nothing in terms of time and expense