A Million Dollars

     I came from a family of eight children.  My mother told of how area neighbors who were childless offered to take and raise one of her children as their own.  But this was something my mother never considered.  We were a farm family and always had food on the table.  Besides being a farm family, my parents also ran a country grocery store.  And so, we were well provided for.  In case the rumor got around that Mother was approached, she quoted her most famous line, "I wouldn't take a million dollars for any one of my children."  This was funny as if anyone was really going to offer it.  In the 50's and 60's there didn't appear to be that kind of money floating around.  But it still leaves in my mind what is the value of human life?
     Although my children are all grown now, I find myself using that similar quote, but not on children.  I use it on my cat, My-a Moo.  I never thought I could ever love an animal as much as I do her.  As she cuddles up in my arms, even making her head under my chin frequently, I find myself stroking her soft hair and repeating my mother's words.  "My-a Moo, I wouldn't take a million dollars for you."  Like say, who is going to make me that kind of offer?  But to me, it doesn't matter, for I would not take anything for her.  I feel that is actually what I am saying.  This, I feel, was what my Mother was saying about the neighbors wanting one of her children.  In a sense, this cat has become a child to me.  I really do love My-a Moo Cat.
     To many pet owners, I wonder what price they would put on the life of their cat?  Love is a strong feeling, and to some, their quote may go even higher than mine of a million dollars.  We do love our cats.