By Jeanette M. Pintar - with inspiration from Misty

They say we should entertain strangers for we never know when we're in the midst of angels. I've met some human angels in my lifetime, but the one that took me most by surprise was a fuzzy-faced, emerald-eyed feline we came to call Misty. It took Misty a while to warm up to us and completely trust us - the same way it took us a while to warm up to and completely trust her. But once that bond was established, it could not be broken.

Misty brought something special into our hearts and home - unconditional love. The kind of love that changes someone forever. The kind of love that turns us into better people and helps us love not only the one who taught us, but all those around us. It's the kind of love that makes us more empathetic, compassionate, and understanding of others. A love that brings us closer and makes us want to learn and grow for the sake of humankind. Misty had an ample abundance of love and she knew how to share it.

Her presence in our lives will always be cherished and honored -- for even after her soul's graduation it can still be felt. She was, is, and will always be our special angel. I hope that my life and soul can have the kind of impact on others that Misty had on us.

Thank you for allowing me to share her with you for the past year. Reflections of a Zen Master was created with the intention to honor Misty's life and the lessons she taught us until the first anniversary of her transition from earth on St. Patrick's Day. I've been told this was a significant date as St. Patrick's Day symbolizes a joining of Spirits and Misty certainly brought ours together. I hope you've enjoyed Reflections of a Zen Master and that the lessons shared at least brought a smile to your face or gave you something to think about. This will be the last article of this column as we leave you with one of the most important lessons Misty taught us: love unconditionally and bask in the glory and joy of each moment.

--- © Jeanette M. Pintar, Inspired by Misty