Today I decided to put down my closest companion. And after 18 years and 8 months of being blessed with his presence, I am sad tonight at the loss his passing causes.
You can never underestimate the value of unconditional love. Of a pet that knows when you need them to be by your side. Of the trust that builds over years of taking care of each other. Of the moment you come home from a long day at work and his eyes can take all your cares away. How even just petting the softness of his fur can lower your blood pressure. And how hearing him purr clears the clutter in your mind.
I feel lonesome without him. And although mentally I know this was the correct and only choice, the tactile remembrance of cuddling with my boy is hard to stop grieving over. So, I face my life without a cat for the first time in 21 years with courage.
Jim sent this note from Dear Abby that even he admits is a bit cheesy, but I really appreciated it for the hope it gives you that after this life we will be reunited with every human or animal that we have loved. Thanks Jim, and thank you to all of those who have e-mailed me with your remembrances of not only Iago, but of the animals that were close to you.
The Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
