Hercules did not make a good first impression on Ben. Hercules is our black cat who persistently craves attention. Ben wanted to have nothing to do with Hercules.
A battle of wills ensued between Ben’s anger and Hercules’ persistent affection…
The Peel
Ben doesn’t like anything about our house since he doesn’t want to live here, so the cat was no exception. Ben would get upset when Hercules tried to jump in his lap or get under his feet. If Ben found the cat sitting on the porch swing, he would tip it over and dump him out. Unfortunately, our other cat even scratched Ben at one point which didn’t help Hercules’ reputation.
Hercules is quite stubborn so he wasn’t deterred, nor did he pester Ben. He just went about his business of seeking affection from other people and sleeping on the bench despite the risk of being dumped. Every once in a while, he would peer his head into Ben’s lap to see if he would get a favorable response.
The Fruit
Ben started interacting with the cats by letting them in and out of the front door. Sometimes he would whistle to get them to follow him to the door. Not that it worked, but it was Ben's way of communicating a small amount of interest.
Over the last year, we have seen Hercules gain more and more ground with Ben. Yesterday, I photographed them sharing the front bench together. Ben was affectionately petting Hercules.
Ignore the anger.
Keep trying.
Persistent love wins.
***
Romans 12:21 - Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - Love is patient, love is kind, it is not envious. Love does not brag, it is not puffed up. It is not rude, it is not self-serving, it is not easily angered or resentful. It is not glad about injustice, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Wow - not crying over here. It's amazing how animals are therapy! This is a great reminder and challenging verse. Help me to be obedient and trusting in You as I apply this verse, Lord!