Veronica, this poem is so complex, has so many layers. It's like peeling an onion. You told several stories (my favorite, the barn kitty) - but I think the essence is the emotion and these lines:

"my tolerance for good feelings is narrow"

"my storm, a complex relationship with pleasure"

I understand both of those lines at a deep level. I used to be so distrustful of happiness and didn't believe in contentment. Now, I embrace both. I hope you can, too.