This drawing was inspired by a very special request from a 9-year-old boy I know well. His beloved cat, “Mimine,” had just passed away, leaving him heartbroken. It was an immense loss for him, as she had always been there to accompany him during those delicate transitions between day and night.
Every evening, she would curl up beside him, her soft and comforting presence seemingly chasing away the worries of the day. She warmed not only his body but also his heart. This precious ritual made falling asleep easier, almost natural, even during times when that transition can often be challenging for children.
When he spoke to me about her, sharing his memories and grief, I could feel how much he needed a connection, a tangible reminder to keep feeling her presence even after she was gone. That’s how I came up with the idea of portraying her as a guardian angel. With her wings and halo, she still watches over him, echoing the unique bond they shared.
Today, this drawing hangs above his bed, in a spot where he can see it every evening. As long as he is young enough for this image to continue bringing him comfort, the drawing will hold a special significance. Later, as he grows older, it will become a memory—a kind of capsule of tenderness and serenity that he can carry in his heart.
Creating this drawing was a deeply moving experience for me, as it illustrates how art can be a bridge between what is tangible and what is no longer here. This drawing became a pathway to help him navigate the grieving process. It’s not about forgetting but about transforming the loss into something that can soothe, something that can continue to be a gentle presence, even if intangible.
For a child, the loss of a pet is often their first experience with grief. It’s both a heartbreaking and precious learning process, opening a door to complex emotions: sadness, longing, but also the memory and gratitude for the moments shared. Through this drawing, I wanted to give him a way to keep that bond alive while gently learning to say goodbye.
And you—have you ever used art or a personal creation to help navigate grief, whether for a child or yourself? I would love to read your stories and reflections in the comments.
Rose Lorang