Vin: A Love Story
If you know me, you’ve probably heard all about Vin, the adorable stray cat who wandered into my life nine months ago. He wasn’t mine in the traditional sense—no collar, no name, and definitely no invitation. Yet, like a little gift from the universe, he just showed up.
At first, I misunderstood him. I thought he was causing trouble, fighting with my other cats. I tried to protect my own by chasing him away, not realizing that my two male cats were the ones starting the fights and keeping him out. But despite the chaos, Vin kept coming back, never asking for anything—just hanging out and patiently waiting for his chance.
Vin is a beautiful Burmese cat with stunning, big golden-brown eyes and fur that resembles a delicious blend of caramel, chocolate, and vanilla—like a walking Caramilk! From the moment he arrived, it felt like he was a special blessing in my life.
Curious about him and feeling a growing bond, I started sitting outside with him, letting him come to me in his own time. I sat, relaxed and let him approach me when he was ready. Little by little, he did! There was something so calming about him that reflected where I was in my own life: learning to trust again and open my heart. I decided to name him Vin, short for Vinyasa Kitty, because he moved like a Yogi; Chest low to the ground, hips high, gliding forward like a Chaturanga.
Then, one day, things took a surprising turn. In the midst of a scuffle with my other cats, Vin panicked and bit me—hard. It drew blood and I had to get it treated. But even in that moment, I knew it wasn’t out of cruelty; it came from fear and instinct.
After that, I affectionately called him "the baby shark." I was mostly weary from the pain, but I wasn’t truly afraid of him. I jokingly referred to it as a love bite—half laughing and half knowing—because that moment actually brought us closer together. It taught me something important about myself: like Vin, I had my own ways of protecting my vulnerable side. His arrival marked the beginning of an incredible transformation for me—a nine-month journey of awakening. It turns out Vin was a lover, not a fighter. Once I started trusting him again, he started to give me the biggest snuggles, constant head bumps, and his own version of forehead kisses.
I had just started my own return to love. I was embracing a time of reflection, peeling away layers of identity and survival. I wasn’t looking for another cat or anything else for that matter, but Spirit had a way of surprising me with the perfect company!
Vin didn’t just barge into my life; he circled around it, testing the waters, observing, and waiting—just like I was learning to do with love.
Slowly but surely, he began to stick around more—by the front door, on the couch. He even started greeting me warmly when I came home, which melted my heart.
Then one unforgettable day—it happened to be Valentine’s Day—I saw a Facebook post from a neighbor: Vin was missing. My heart sank. By that point, he had become such a big part of my life that losing him felt unbearable.
His family came to pick him up on my birthday. I wasn’t home, so I missed the chance to say goodbye. But the very next day, he was back! He has never left since. His family, knowing he’d been spending time with us, hasn’t reached out again.
In the beginning, Vin chose the couch as his spot, managing to stay for just a few hours before he felt the need to wander into the night. Slowly, though, he started staying longer, cozying up on the couch or in the spare room. Then, just a few nights ago—after all those beautiful moments together—he jumped onto my bed and snuggled in for the whole night. Now, he wakes me up sweetly with a gentle lick to the forehead.
This story isn't just about a cat; it’s a heartwarming tale about trust, healing, timing, and love that shows up just when we’re ready for it.
I’ve always believed that animals can be soulmates, and my golden retriever, Hugo, was one of mine. He had been by my side during my biggest transformations—loyal, wise, and full of love. When he passed away in December 2023, my heart broke open. I asked for a sign from God, a reminder that Hugo was still with me. And then came Vin, like an answer to my prayers! I no longer wonder if he was sent to me; I know without doubt that he truly was.
He arrived to help me navigate the challenging parts of my return to love. He reminds me that love in its purest form cannot be forced but comes when it resonates with our hearts and feels safe.
Vin is so much more than just a cat. He is my soul companion, a gentle messenger, and a reflection of my own healing journey.
He is the pure embodiment of unconditional love.
Madonna x
