Cat, at rest… neatly folded, with only the ears tell you which end is the head. Is there any animal able to get more comfortable than a cat?
Today has been a bit murky weatherwise; not much in the way of photogenic subjects to be found. As I took the recycling bin out the back, I spotted him sleeping. I tried to trundle the bin as quietly as possible to leave him undisturbed- and he was still in position when I came back along the path. Since I had my phone, I took a couple of pics thinking “It’s Furrsday” and hoping you’d appreciate the pun. By the time you see this, it may be Friday, but just go with the flow and start purring.
Did you know that domestic cats can sleep between 16-20 hours a day? I think I’m a teeny bit jealous!
Much of their sleeping is akin to our dozing, a light sleep that allows swift response to any change or threat nearby. They conserve energy for short bursts of hunting (or “zoomies” at 3am). Most cats prefer to be active at dusk and dawn, though domestication has altered that to some degree. When the food comes ready cooked and served by Mum or the “butler” hunting is reduced to an optional extra.
Humans are less good at rest. Civilisation has made our lives more complicated. The arrival of gaslighting and then electric light means we are not dependent on daylight. We have created technological marvels that mean we can be disturbed in our home at pretty much any time: phones, mobiles, email and internet all scream for our attention. We can share photos almost instantly. Entertainment is there 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on tap, and we can stream a whole series if we’re too impatient to wait a week for the next episode.
Is all this “civilisation” truly healthy? Scientists, doctors and spiritual leaders are all calling for a change that will allow us to be REAL again. Learning to choose rest is a big part of that process.
Living restfully takes careful choices on our part: and is best served by placing our trust in God. I think a verse from the Psalms should fit humans and cats! Psalm 4 v8: “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.”
