Home (In the perspective of “Toto”)

I was enjoying a normal day in Singapore when a few people came back and dropped off what seemed like a miniature version of themselves. He had taken over my bed. At first I was so scared of him. Then he grabbed me and hugged me. I was warm and comfortable lying in his soft hands. Sometimes I felt something wet and stinky; they called it peeing. Sometimes he would be put into water with bubbly stuff on him. I desperately waited for him to return. I felt at home cuddled up in his soft hands. The large humans named my friend Lucas. Since those first days, we have moved to two new houses. My friend had learned to crawl, stand, and walk. After a few more months, I even met another human that looked like Lucas when he was smaller! They named the boy Connor, but I definitely liked Lucas more than him. I learned that my address, country, and family can change, but as long as I am with Lucas safe and cuddled in his hands I will feel at home. Now it has been nine years since we met. From the moment Lucas had learned to speak, he has called me “Toto”. I can express my feelings with Lucas because no matter what, if I have a bad day or lose anything, Lucas will always love me. Also I do not have to worry so much about things because he will help me when I need help and remind me about things. I have also learned I can always trust Lucas to help and trust me. Lucas will always try to help me feel at home safe, warm, free, comfortable, and happy as I can be. This is what home means to me.