Gadiel

Over four years ago I moved from Los Angeles to a very suburban area-quite a few miles away. At the time my mother and I were taking care of my grandmother, who was physically handicapped and needed assistance around the clock. At her house we had two dogs and a cat: Samantha-a 5 year old German Shepherd, Brindy-a 5 year old Chow and Pit Bull mix, and Spike-a 2 year old short-hair. All three I held dear to me… they were family. But the time came when my mom had to move due to her job. My grandmother knew it was time for us to leave, so my aunt took over. Everything went as planned. We were to find a home for Samantha, Brindy and Spike because we could only afford a condo (animals aren’t allowed in apts/condos here… unless you pay a very hefty fine).

My aunt soon found out how difficult it was to take care of our grandmother. She was filled with such hatred toward us-for no reason but that we left. To take “revenge” she called up a local animal shelter and paid $50 each animal to be picked up and put to sleep upon arrival. We had no warning. We received a call from my brother telling us that he found out all 3 were taken to the shelter… then about a half hour later he called again and told us the horrific news. I cried for days and nights.

I was heartbroken from the move… heartbroken from the loss… and heartbroken from the loneliness. I needed someone. Shortly later I had an epiphany. What if I can find a life that needs a home? I began my search looking for my special little one.

It was a day that I was visiting my grandmother that I looked in a local paper. A notice was out for a litter of kittens that needed a home quick. I had a feeling… I went. There I met my little one. Out of all the kittens, the lady who was giving them away sought out special for him. “He’s black cat,” she said, “people do crazy things to them… But something tells me you will take good care of him. Do you promise me you will?” A promise? I promised her nothing would happen to my little one. I’d consider him a son.

After that moment he became my son. I saw it in him… Every time he was frightened, needed something, or just wanted to… he came to me. To this very time he does. He’s my little one… he’s my son.

So what does Gadiel mean? Gadiel in Hebrew means “my fortune.” In short-Gidi.

These are some thoughts, idea, things I have compiled over the years in his name.