“Hello, I am Orchid. As you can see, I am a black orchid – black, black, very black except for a tiny white spot on my chest. I am more fluffy than sleek, and I think I’m about 3 years old, maybe less, maybe more. Have a seat, talk to me, pet my soft fur – but, please, don’t ruffle it. Just pet me softly and gently. I found out that black orchids represent love, luxury, beauty and strength, at least that’s what florists say. Well now, I feel a little better about myself already! Who wouldn’t want a little love, luxury, beauty and strength!”

“I’ve not been feeling too good about myself because I had some people who weren’t so nice. They just moved away and left me behind. And that was after they took my front claws away. I was sad. I was scared. I went to another house, climbed the steps, and said to the people, ‘Please help me. I am Orchid. I am hungry, and I have a good heart and no home.’ Thank you, people, for getting me to Feline Rescue. I understand that abandoned, homeless lady cats can find new – and forever – people here. Forever people – Orchid is waiting.”

“Orchid would like to do the best possible work representing love, luxury, beauty and strength. She thinks she needs some energy work to do that. Can you do Reiki or healing touch or something that will balance my chakras? After my experience, I need to be, once again, in balance with the universe. I know it is hard to see the chakras of a black orchid cat. I also know that mine need fine tuning so that I will be content in all nine of my lives.”

“Orchid doesn’t really want much – just love, luxury, beauty and strength. I could probably do without the luxury. In fact, I could more likely be your luxury, gently providing a soft lap robe for you when it’s cold. Curling up quietly on your hearth or colonial throw rug. And, sometimes, I will purr, and we will relax together. Oh, that sounds so good to me! Just bring $120, and invite this black Orchid to go home with you.”