By Jeanette M. Pintar - with inspiration from Misty

Misty was a very personable cat. She loved to nuzzle up against her favorite humans and a good chin rub from anyone was instant utopia. Often if you'd scritch behind her ears, Misty would bury her whole head into your hand with love and joy just oozing from her. She adored both physical and emotional connection. Those who spent any amount of time with Misty grew to recognize and treasure this about her. Charlie Brown may have thought it best to speak softly and carry a beagle, but those who knew Misty could tell you utter contentment is sure to be found in a purring feline.

But like anyone, Misty had her "off days" when she just wasn't feeling her usual self. Many animals - including the two-legged human species - will get snippy or bite at you when they're out of sorts. But Misty had a better approach. She'd take a "time out" and hide under the covers where she could feel safe, warm, and peaceful.

This method works quite well for people, too. I'll never forget visiting my sister when Amy, my three-year-old niece, came crying to me and when asked what was wrong she said, "I need a time out and Ashley won't leave the room." After Amy's older sister left the room with some gentle adult persuasion, Amy laid down, snuggled under the covers and took a nap. When she woke up later she was rejuvenated, laughing and ready to play with the other children again. If a concept is so easy and effective that both a cat and a three-year-old can grasp and use it, surely, we as adults, can make it work for us. No matter how good our coping skills are there are going to be days when just need to hide away from the world for a little while.

Remember: When you need a time out, It's OK hide under the covers.

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