My Rocket Ship
The first connection I ever formed with an animal was my ex-girlfriend's cat. I ended up stuck with him during her Christmas break from school, and we grew extremely close in a short amount of time. Strangely enough, I felt like I knew this cat from somewhere. I just couldn't figure out what that feeling was.
Our bond formed quickly, and I can't explain the chemistry in words, but it was like having a roommate I had known for years. There was no fighting, no accidents, or disagreements. We watched the same shows, he pulled the occasional prank, I'd enjoy a beer while he enjoyed some catnip, but most importantly, we gave one another space when we needed it.
I never admitted it, but I needed that cat during that time. I had just made it through an existential crisis, and my emotions were still stabilizing after I battled through the worst of it. And as I gained a better foundation of my own emotions and identity, he gave me a distraction when I needed one the most and a hopeful stare when I began to doubt myself.
He was the lift I needed--I miss that cat more than my ex.