Just (Don't) Do It

In which I embrace the joy of "nope"

If you’re reading this, it’s because the cat has graciously removed himself from my lap after pinning my right hand under his fuzzy stomach and my left hand under an outstretched paw. I can’t blame him for thinking this wasn’t a problem. For someone with a computer in her lap, I haven’t been doing very much writing. Instead, I’ve been “sittin’ and lookin’”, as my grandfather used to say; no TV, no social media, no music, just my own breath, his purring, the quiet whirr of a heater taking the chill out of the room.

“Just watching the world go by.”

I must be quite a sight, this blanketed lump with glazed-over eyes. Yes, someone is home, but the lights are significantly dimmed, barely illuminating the usual flood of thoughts. More than a few times, I’ve considered scrapping my column and simply taking a nap. It’s an idea the cat has indicated he fully endorses. As he looks at me, nosing his way toward a few extra pets. I have to admit he is very convincing.

For anyone who may need it: this is a little reminder to take care of yourself, rest when you need it, and fully embrace the simple quiet moments in this noisy world. Until next week, KW

This essay originally appeared in my column in the March 5, 2026 edition of The Perry Herald in Perry, NY.