178 words
I used to smile.
I used to be fun and smile at everyone and anything.
Then something happened and it became harder and harder to smile.
I stayed at home, curled up in bed, shutting myself off from the world. I cried for no reason and hated everything I used to love.
“Snap out of it” they tell me. “You just need a good nights sleep” they say. “You have no reason to be depressed so just… don’t be,” they insist.
Shockingly none of that works.
One day on a mopey walk to work I see the sign and even though it had never occurred to me before, I follow it: FREE KITTENS hastily scribbled in thick black marker on cardboard.
I fall in love instantly. His green eyes, his tiger stripes, his fluffy belly, and legs that are too long for his tiny body.
I scoop him up and hold him to my chest, feeling his fuzzy body and hear his purrs against my neck.
It’s then that I remember
just how easy it is to smile.
Author’s Note: I am not claiming that a kitten should be used in place of seeing a licensed therapist or being on an anti-depressant. If you’re feeling depressed, please please find someone to talk to about it. This flash fiction was written when I was having a bad morning and my kitten sat at my feet and was being goofy and completely changed my mood.
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FANTASTIC!!!!! Love your writing!!!
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Love it!!
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Sunshine in my stomach – kitten therapy is well established in this house. Thanks!
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Awwww, this short story reminds me of me and my 6 cats, seriously they do make you smile, love this story……
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BABY JUDEEEEEE💙
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So nice… love it!
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Cats and kittens do have a way. Love the story. ~nan
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