"Pain is the price we pay for love"

14 years ago I picked up a kitten in Chicago. Thought he was a girl so named him Smitten. Turns out he was a boy so his name changed to Smit (or Mr. Smit). He rode the whole way home from Chicago on my shoulder making friends with every toll worker along the way 🤣. Since then he has been a constant in my life. No matter the day I was having, he was more than happy to sit on my chest and soak up the love. These last few months have been difficult for him health wise and it became increasingly clear this week that he was declining. So today we did as we do and showered him with lots of love (and food). His last moments were where he loved to be...on my lap. As expected, saying goodbye to him is difficult. Part of me would give anything for more time, but the bigger part of me is happy to take on some of that pain so that he didn't have too...and if pain is the price we pay for love than by god let it hurt. I love you Smit. Rest in peace, buddy.