3:AM Magazine

By Y.C. Lin

When I was in school there was always a composition course.

I always did very well.

There is one in college entrance exam also.

I also did very well.

Binky has been sitting on dad’s lap, very relaxing, for a long time.

He is still on dad’s lap now, they are both watching TV.

He must like dad a lot because every time I put him besides me,

he always struggles and wants to leave.

Maybe he thinks his age is close to dad’s

and both are men so he feels easier, right?

I like Binky and Tabby a lot more than the cat.

I had never held him or touched the cat

because I was afraid of touching furry animals.

The first time dad brought him home (the cat was always in dad’s office

at University of Rochester so dad brought him home),

I was very scared, he kept following me.

When I sat on the sofa, he would jump on to my lap

and I was very afraid. He tried to be close to me,

but later on I think he gave up.

I had never been close to the cat

although I thought he was smart and funny sometimes.

When we went to pick up Binky, I was also afraid

of being close to him, but later on I was not afraid anymore

and became close to him and Tabby. I love them very much.

Cats are aloof and loners,

they are not as affectionate as dogs.

I see you have a lot of food.

If you can make “whole grain” into your diet, that is even better.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Y.C. Lin was born in Taiwan. She moved to America when she was an adult. She lives in Orlando, Florida with her husband and toy poodle.

First published in 3:AM Magazine: Wednesday, April 4th, 2007.