We are in control of destiny

Throughout history, the struggle between the young and old has been a visual reminder of generational differences. Although fostering phenomenal relationships with my children, we have not been void of the occasional disagreement and friction.

I recall several years ago my eldest daughter decided she desired to become the owner of a cuddly little kitten. Although not my dream pet, I relented and we welcomed the furry little feline into the fold.

As we carried about our normal routine of work and school, the kitten grew alongside my child and it’s older sibling cat; my daughter had adopted many years before. “Kitty” the older cat quickly grew weary of the newest family member and would routinely seclude herself to a perch from which she could watch with a condescending look while not having to be a party to the latest adventures the littlest family member was engaging in.

As the time passed by, we noticed something quite odd about Natalie’s little bundle of furry joy. Regardless of the situation, the cat would have an evil smirk on its little face and glare as if it was strategizing on how this little 4-pound feline was going to end your existence. I’m convinced the pet had serious emotional issues, but regardless, my child still loved the little beast, although she was growing weary of its antics.

When the little beast was approximately 4 months old, I believe I came to understand the core of the problem. I became convinced that some evil demon had infiltrated the kitty, who had the outward appearance of radiant sunshine and warmth, but inwardly was consumed with meanness and bad intentions. You laugh now, but truly, should a man have to watch his back in his own home, because of a fear of what evil lurks beyond the hallway in the form of your beloved daughter’s skinny, juvenile cat?

My beliefs became incontestable when one day while preparing for work, I was standing in front of the bathroom mirror. Following completing my morning ritual, I took a moment to say a quick prayer, asking for the safety of my family and my willingness to live a servant type life towards others.

Out of nowhere, the furry satan spawn turned the corner and sprung towards me, grasping my leg. It contained my leg in a fierce grasp by utilizing both of his front arms, mouth and whatever else the beast could find. Its actions were apparently designed to ensure any attempted escape, on my part, was futile.

Following a short battle, I escaped and was left with a confused mind and somewhat speechless demeanor over what had just occurred. Although I could see the cat’s end in sight, I battled forward due to my child’s love for this truly evil being. Over the next couple months, the cat calmed somewhat, with the exception of when it caught you praying. If it saw you pray, it lept into action and the apparent evil inside would spring forth into a sort of scorched earth form of action.

In the end, the cat found a new home, Natalie was happy, and dad’s legs healed, although the emotional toll brought on by the beast may remain a lifetime. Ive heard he became a farm cat, which would suit him well and I’m sure bring him countless hours of joy as he hunted the country side.

My only hope is that whichever farm he resides upon, that no poor soul decides to take a moment to sit along the tree line to have a quick devotional and prayer. For if they do, I have no doubt, they will be in for a surprise at the hands of the evil demon cat.

As I ponder on my experiences with Natalie’s little bundle of joy, I am reminded about how many times the external factors in our life seemingly try their best to bring us down and stop us from walking the line we have chosen.

When we feel things, relationships and situations are perfect and our lives are where they need to be, just like the cat, it at times instantaneously transforms into a beast bent on destroying your peace and prosperity.

We must maintain focused and carry on understanding that we, and we alone, are in control of our destiny. As the external, and at times internal factors surface, fight them off, tend your scratches, continue along your path as you find happiness in the knowledge that you, and you alone, will prevail to greatness.

Richard J. Stephens lives in Carter County and is the father of three little ladies ranging in age from eight to 29.