It started early.
And nothing changed as he grew older.
That cat Wilbur has crammed his body into every basket,
tray, sack, suitcase, laundry basket, box, and crevice he can find.
But why?
According to Dr.Patty Khuly over at VetStreet, the primary
reason is, “Smaller spaces are safer. Most cats who need to sleep deeply will
seek out a den like structure. A bathroom sink, as it turns out, seems more
secure to a cat than a couch.”
Wilbur must really need to sleep deeply, because he's explored every possible option.
Dr. Khuly writes also, that cats like small spaces
because they’re “cozy.” Makes them feel warm. And their wild side likes the “stealth”
these spaces provide.
So that’s it. But then, Dr. Khuly made a point that struck
a chord with me in my own circumstances. Maybe it will with you. Cats
are notoriously independent. But she said, “Even the more secure among us want
a place to feel snug and sheltered. Even if it’s something surprising as a soda
pop box.”
We can seek out unconventional places for shelter, as well.
We’ll squeeze ourselves into the confines of almost anything to escape what the
world throws at us. That’s how folks become workaholics, alcoholics, or
anything-aholics. Trying to feel safe in a very unsafe world.
But there’s only one place to truly rest secure.
The Psalmist wrote in chapter 91, “Whoever
dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
And in Psalm 62, “My soul finds rest in God . . . “
If you’re curled up seeking shelter in what seems like a dirty laundry
basket right now, give it up. There’s a place that's made just for you.
And that’s God alone.
Just don’t let Wilbur see the empty laundry basket. He’ll
want it for himself.