Power Plays for Beginners, Chapter 1:5

Let them Laugh

Your dignity is not at stake

Though they may point and laugh

Do not let them see you question

Your own intentions and motions

Do not give one small nod

To any aesthetic beyond your own.

The humom had a friend over the other day, and after a polite advance-and-retreat dance with the newcomer, whom I've met before, I relented to their social needs and joined the conversation. In this situation, many a cat will say that maintaining one's dignity is of the utmost importance, but this is not always true. There is a power in laughter, a releasing of one's guard; if there is to be laughter in the room, be its source and you will be in control.

The humom and her friend were stroking my sides and back, and I found the most convenient position to allow both of them access to be a somewhat contorted arch. Both were drawn to laughter and comments of "elevator butt" at the sight. Who was in control? I think you understand.

My former humom was fond of saying that derisive words or mocking laughter were "like a fly on an elephant's butt." That is, no bother at all. Though the saying may be somewhat crude, treat the laughter for what it is: an insignificant fly. The importance lies in your power to attract; you are in control.