I do custom pet portraits as a side gig.

A while ago, I saw a heartfelt post by someone grieving their British Shorthair cat. The photos they shared and the way they described the cat’s personality just stayed with me.

I couldn’t stop thinking about it. (I have also lost a cat in the past so could relate).

So I decided to draw their cat. I didn’t tell them, just quietly worked on it that evening. When I sent it to them out of the blue, I didn’t expect much—maybe a thank you.

But what I got back? A long, emotional message…and after a week a photo of the entire family holding the framed portrait. They were smiling, but you could feel the emotion behind it.

And me? I was ugly crying in front of my screen. Full-on tissue mode. It completely made my day. Actually, my whole week.

It reminded me how small acts of kindness, especially when shared through creativity, can truly touch someone’s heart.

**This wonderful person can be found on Instagram - @akillustrations2025 **