By Katie Gill
Posted on August 7 – My Birthday! 🎂🐾
The older I get, the more I realize… I’m turning into a cat.
Not in the nap-on-the-windowsill kind of way (okay, maybe that too), but in how I move through life, relationships, and even work. After years of teaching kids by day and bottle-feeding kittens at 3 a.m., I’ve learned that cats—quirky, cautious, and full of heart—have been some of my greatest teachers.
So in honor of my birthday, I’m sharing 9 life lessons these kittens have taught me—lessons about love, patience, boundaries, and showing up, even when it’s hard. Because whether it’s a kitten, a classroom, or a complicated friendship, the truth is: kittens have a lot to teach us!
1. Be Curious
Cats never stop exploring—drawers, purses, laundry baskets, and even your personal space. Everything is a potential adventure. They remind me that curiosity isn’t just for the young.
It’s a way of staying alive inside. A curious heart leads to growth, new ideas, and deeper connections. Curiosity doesn’t always lead to answers—but it always leads somewhere worthwhile.
2. Speak Up (Even If It’s Just a Meow)
Cats aren’t shy about expressing themselves. They chirp, howl, purr, and sometimes just stare at you until you understand what they need.
They’ve taught me not to bottle things up. If you’re hungry, say so. If you want affection, lean in. If something doesn’t feel right—trust your gut and speak. Your voice matters, even if it shakes a little.
3. Nap Without Guilt
A cat will curl up for a nap in the middle of a busy room without hesitation. Rest is not a reward—it’s a necessity.
I’ve learned that it’s okay to pause. You don’t have to earn your rest. In fact, you’ll be better for it. You can’t pour from an empty cup (or an empty food bowl)
4. Not Every Mess Needs to Be Cleaned Right Away
Cats have the best timing when it comes to chaos. Just cleaned the floor? Hairball. Got somewhere to be? Litter box accident.
But here’s the thing: the world doesn’t end because of a little mess. Some things can wait. It’s okay to leave the laundry, the dishes, or the 43 unread emails. What matters most is being present—for yourself and the ones you love. (One of the hardest to do daily but I’m trying)
5. Trust Has to Be Earned, Not Demanded
Some kids, coworkers, friends—even cats—run straight into your arms. Others take days, weeks, or even longer to warm up. Being in this work, and around these animals, has taught me so much about relationships. Real connection doesn’t happen overnight. Love and trust aren’t owed or expected—they’re built. You can’t rush it. You show up, stay present, stay kind, and let people (and animals) come to you when they feel safe.
Whether it’s a student learning to open up, a volunteer finding their place, or someone you thought was your friend showing their true self—it all takes time. But when that moment of trust finally happens? When someone lets you in for real? It’s pure magic.
6. Growth Happens Quietly
One day a kitten fits in your palm, and the next, they’re scaling the furniture like a jungle cat.
In life, we often miss our own growth because we’re living in it. The healing, the progress, the becoming—it’s usually slow and subtle. But it’s happening. And when you finally look back, you’ll see how far you’ve come.
7. Love Fiercely, Let Go Gently
Fostering has taught me to open my heart without clinging. Not everything or everyone is meant to stay forever—and that’s okay.
You can love deeply and still let go with grace. It’s one of the hardest and most beautiful things in life.
8. Community Is Everything
Cats may be independent, but they also thrive in companionship—whether it’s a bonded sibling, a trusted human, or the warm laundry pile.
I’ve learned the importance of leaning on others, asking for help, and building connections. Life isn’t meant to be done alone. We all need a community..
9. Every Life Deserves a Chance
Whether it’s a kitten born under a shed or a senior cat left behind, every life has value.
This truth has reshaped how I see the world. Everyone—animal or human—deserves compassion, dignity, and the chance to thrive. You never know what someone is capable of with a little love and support.
Final Thought
As I celebrate another year around the sun, I’m not making a wish. I’m saying thank you—to the cats who’ve taught me to lead with compassion, and remind me every day why it matters.
Here’s to more lives, more lessons, and (let’s be real) more kittens. 🐾