Recipe for “Good Luck”

Kabir Vega

HAVANA TIMES – Prospering and getting rid of things standing in my way, these must have been the thoughts running through the person’s head as they kicked the cat (in the photo) out on the street.

I found her on January 1st, a little removed from residential areas. She was confused and didn’t know whether to follow or run away from passers-by. From the scent of her fur, as well as the fact that she wasn’t afraid of people, it was clear that she hadn’t been out on the street for very long.

Faced with their own material hardship, the owner had probably decided that the creature didn’t add to their life in any way, just took away from it and therefore, got rid of her. Just like old junk is thrown out to make space and waiting for the new year to replace it with pleasant and more valuable things.

Most people think that good things come from outside. Money, assets, tasty food. Things to catch people’s attention, to stand out among the rest.

Even if that is taking in an animal that is an attractive breed.

Very few people believe in the value of doing something good; in the difference that it makes to an abandoned animal’s life when you decide to protect it.

In order to avoid the responsibility and work that a helpless creature involves and at the cost of putting them at risk on the street, they have lost the chance to experience the joy of looking after it and watching it grow. Just like the animal’s insecurity and fear become joy and affection for their unparalleled owner.

Caught up in their excessive pragmatism, they haven’t experienced the happiness of displaying kindness even when things are against you.

This alleged relaxed attitude of looking after just yourself always comes with a great emptiness that you then try to compulsively fill with material pleasures and goods. However, they never really achieve real satisfaction.

Not having responsibility doesn’t make you any happier or freer.

Everyone is hoping that their wishes come true in the new year. However, how many people decide to start off the year by giving, instead of taking it for granted that they deserve to be on the receiving end?

Even the poorest person can give something: a piece of advice, a nice few words, a little bit of food or water.

The person who gives is the one who has real power and freedom.