As Cathy has been going through her cancer treatment, I’ve taken on most of the household duties. I guess you’d say, in the parlance of our ancestors, I’ve kept the home fires burning. I’m not complaining, mind you. Such is my job, and I do it gladly. It’s part of my role in this cancer journey.

This morning I fed our cats, emptied the dishwasher, and looked out on our patio. There, at the top step to our back door, sat the neighborhood stray cat, Timmy. He shows up from time to time and waits until I bring him some food. If he has to wait too long, he gets closer to the back door. The look on his face seems to say, “I have faith in you.” At least that’s the way I read it—a zen expression that radiates peace and acceptance. “I’ll wait right here,” Timmy seems to be saying, “for whatever will come.” He’s a boy with tremendous patience.

And so it should be for those of us who write, but often we’re in too big of a hurry. We’re eager to complete a draft. We’re in a hurry to publish. We long for validation. We don’t stop to realize that drafts and acclaim come at their own schedule. Here, then, are a few things I’ve learned from watching Timmy.

1. The present moment is the only moment. Accept that and live within it.

2. A quiet mind is a receptive mind. Let the work come to you when it’s ready. Delay any thoughts of what may happen after that.

3. Celebrate small blessings. Give thanks for whatever you have. Banish any desire for more.

4. Be steady with your habit. Keep showing up. You can’t receive a gift if you’re not present.

5. Forgive whatever or whoever stands in your way, even yourself and what you may consider your shortcomings. Remember lesson number one: The present moment is the only moment. Keep moving through them one at a time.

So that’s a few lessons from Timmy the stray. Please allow me to add one more of my own. Banish your ego and your pride. Be open to anyone who can teach you, even a stray cat waiting patiently for you to find him.