DUFE Cat

The tabby cat that roams my campus grounds is simply called DUFE cat, since DUFE is the acronym of my university (Dongbei University of Finance and Economics). I have come across this mysterious creature numerous times in my 2 years here. Even today, I ran across him on the steps of the building I work in, which is one of his common spots.

I wanted to ask him what he calls himself, if he calls himself anything. Or if I am correct in my assertion that he is a he and not a she. Instead, I simply called him kitty and he continued to doze in his spot. As apathetic as he is, DUFE cat is an immensely popular caricature at the university. When I make my students act out scenes for things like proverbs or idioms, there is typically a role play that in someway incorporates DUFE cat. He is greatly loved, but does nothing to garner that admiration.

I have tried following him around before. It reminds me of the protagonist from the Miyazaki film Whisper of the Heart. She comes across a cat, Moon, and follows him round one day. I followed him that one day, walking alongside him down the sidewalk during a stroll through the uni. In the end, he perched on a spot outside a building and stayed there until I was bored and carried on with my busy day. I think in some ways I am jealous of DUFE cat. I care not for his undeserved adoration since I don't give a damn what others think of me. Rather, I wish I had a home like DUFE cat's. He is free to go anywhere; he doesn't need a job. The students feed him, nothing asked in return. Why can't I be fed for free? If he so wishes, one day he can move to another university. Maybe even sneak on a train and go to another city. A new land; different universities; more caretakers. How I envy the simpleton.

I type this post trapped in my comfortable little box, wishing I could be out there glaring at the stars... though knowing I would be puffing on the toxic fume in the process. Outside in the moonlight without a care in the world; I would travel station to station exploring new worlds every step of the way. In this sublime moment, I would bask in the glory of freedom and hoping to jump from place to place. What a life to be freed from these shackles of slavery. No more fears of finances or finding my place in the world. A reality where I was the master. In charge of my own destiny and not a pawn in a game of cat and mouse. Would I be willing to live the life of the DUFE cat? Could I become a free spirit in a world that demands conformity and compliance?

There is a sad truth in my answer: I found my spot, and I am afraid of leaving.