You may notice a change with this Substack. Its name has gone from Feral Soul to Formerly Feral. There might be a few legacy fingerprints of the old name, but they will fade.
The origin story of this entire project centers around a feral cat our family wooed into our house and life through arduous expressions of unrelenting care. That cat, Trixie, started her journey into our care for her by watching me lying on the track of our sliding glass door, hand outstretched toward her wary face with treats as I tried to convince her I was safe. Nowadays, Trixie climbs into the bed next to me each night, and if I’m lying on my side facing away, she gently taps me with her paw, requesting scratches.
She has gone from feral to something different. From untrusting, feeling she must be protective, self-reliant, and guarded at all times with no resources or help in the world, she is now at peace in our love and care for her.
Evidence of her feral nature remains. When I approach her, she looks ready to dash away, forever in fight or flight. This has softened, but it’s still her resting state. She needs an escape route at all times. If there’s an unfamiliar noise, she stares at me for any evidence of worry from me. There’s still work, but isn’t there always.
Her evolution is undeniable. She’s become something new. As a living illustration, she’s done what God looks for in us, living at ease in His care, Trusting He is for us, and believing that in His house is love and full life. And I’m over the moon when I see her resting, living, and trusting the care we offer.
So, given what’s on display in the exemplar of the worth journey, a change was needed. A new reference point for who she is and perhaps who we all can become. Formerly self-reliant, formerly guarded at all times, formerly doubting there’s help for us or anyone we can trust. Formerly feral.
I didn’t do a big relaunch, a hype video, or really much more than what I’ve seen in Trixie. It’s a newness that dawns slowly until the new light of daybreak is undeniable. This is different; a new day is here to be named.
Be well, friend.
Yes, there is always more work to be done. Looking forward to new insights from Formerly Feral.