The Carrot Ranch October 17, 2022, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story that references “I see the light in you.” You can use the phrase or demonstrate it in a story. Who is shining and why? Who is observing or reacting? What is the setting? Go where the prompt leads! Submit by October 22, 2022.

Henry the cat, lived at the nursing home for over two years. He was a typical tabby cat, adored by the patients.
The first thing I noticed about him was his connection to those who would soon pass. The cat had the uncanny ability to see the light in people. Somehow, he noticed the shadows of death gathering, as if their life-light dimmed in intensity.
The next thing I noticed was that Henry stayed with his patient, offering comfort with a cuddle and a purr, keeping vigil at their bedside.
Today, Henry curled up beside me. I felt peace.
© Colleen M. Chesebro
I had goosebumps reading this, Colleen.
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I read a study about a cat who did this! It has to do with smell, but I think cats see what we cannot.
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I had heard about this before so I went on a internet search and came up with Oscar, The Cat
https://www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-palliative-care-blog/2016/april/11/meet-oscar-the-cat-that-predicts-death-and-provides-comfort/
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Yes! I’m very connected to my cats. I could see them doing this.
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Beautiful Colleen… One I relate too as my cat cuddles and gives me his own healing vibes through his vibration of his purrrrs…. Our animals are great healing companions..
Sending love and hugs my friend.. ❤ ❤
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Yes! My cats are the same way. What a comfort! ❤️
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😺😻😺
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❤ ^—^ ❤
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They just know. 🧡
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I’ve heard about that happening also. Their senses are attuned to things we can’t see. (K)
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My one cat Sophie, the dark tortoiseshell, is so tuned in to me. I could see this happening for sure!
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I’ve heard various stories about cats’ ability to sense death coming and going to stay with the person until they pass.
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Yes. I based this story off of a cat named Oscar. They say it’s their keen sense of smell that clues them in. I like to think they see our light fading. To have such a comfort as you pass on, what a loving creature… it really touches my heart.
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Yes, mine, too.
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We’re lucky to have such great cats. 😍
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What an amazing story Colleen.
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Thank you, Sadje. There is a real cat who does this. The scientists suspect the cat smells “death.” I like to think they see our light fading. The comfort given at such a time is priceless. ❤️
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I’ve heard of it too. Indeed it is amazing.
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I love your story, Colleen. Cats are very special and I feel, though they can be aloof, they are sensitive to our moods and needs. 💖
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I’ve never had a cat I didn’t love to pieces, Franci. Both of my girls are great cats. The dark Tortoiseshell, Sophie is stuck to me like glue. She’s a total ‘fraidy cat! LOL! I read about a cat who actually did this. I think his name was Oscar. 🐈 🐈⬛
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Wow, gave me the shivers Sis ❤
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Yay! I want to write a book about Samhain next year. This is a warm up! 🎃
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Yay ❤
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Henry must be an angel Colleen.. lovely story ♥
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So this is based off of a real cat named Oscar. Can you imagine the comfort he brought those who were without family? ❤️
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We had one in the UK in a nursing home who had that gift too.. I have also heard about it from a friend whose old dog was in his last days. The family cat who had hated him and avoided him when possible began lying beside him along with their other younger dog. Two days later he died with them by his side. Amazing empathy and a sense of mortality..♥
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I agree. Animals have more empathy than most humans. It should be a wakeup call to us all. ❤️
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[…] Henry Could See the Light by Colleen M. Chesebro […]
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I love this story. It’s cool enough about the cat, but I liked the perspective , the first person pov and twist at the end. A truly fine 99!
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Thanks so much, D. A wonderful compliment. I had just read about this cat, and it struck me that it would make the perfect story.
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