Today would be your birthday! Happy Birthday little girl! If you were still here today you would be 21! That is crazy for a dog! I can’t believe it’s been almost two years since we said goodbye. I used to cry every time I thought of you, but now I spend time laughing and smiling when my thoughts role back to your years with me.
You taught me so much. You taught me how to be present. You would sit and listen when times were good and when times were bad. You recognized emotions and really hated it when I was sad. You would crank your neck and then lick my tears. I know you didn't understand the why just that I was upset. You seemed compelled to try to brighten my day. You made it okay.
You taught me that true love is unconditional. You loved me even when I was not the prettiest of people. I would get angry or stay out late and there you were with a smile and kind greeting every time. You were quick to forgive and didn't hold grudges. Some say, "Oh she's just a dog" but to me you were family. We could all do better to love others the way dogs love people.
I saw a quote once that read "Lord, make me the person my dog thinks I am." I still pray this often. I want to always see the best in someone, forgive quickly and never hold a grudge.
You taught me that sometimes all you need is a treat and a car ride. I loved how you always knew where we were when we drove around town. When we would stop by the 'rents, your tail would wag and you would wine with excitement. Having your people and being with the ones you loved was the best place for you. It has become the same for me. People that I love restore and renew my energy. Something I may never have noticed if it weren't for you.
I appreciate food more after you. Not necessarily what the food is but that when I had it you would want it. I did loving give you a nickname "Chicken" because it was apparent that it was your favorite food item. I won't forget the time when I left chicken in the crockpot while I went to work. It had been cooking for the better part of 8 hours by the time I got home and you had enough of being teased with that pleasing aroma. I got home and headed for the door to let you out, in our normal routine, and you won't go. You stood in the kitchen stomping your feet, wining and barking at me. It took me some time to realize that you were staging a coup until you got some of that chicken. I'm so glad I grabbed my camera.
You may not have been able to say words but we all knew exactly what you wanted when you wanted it. Your attitude was everything. You would throw your nose up in the air, huff with a loud breath, and refuse to make eye contact when you were mad. You would be gentle when those were in pain and you never left my side when I was hurting. You showed excitement and love through your various grunts. You were the protector; always acting bigger than you were. Barking at delivery men, horses in the field behind our house, and one time chasing a German Shepard down the street (that one actually scared me). That dog looked at me like "Is she serious? Oh she is serious..." and off he went.
After you died, I was thankful for the videos and pictures. I am thankful for the memories. I'm so glad that God gave me you. I once read a post that told a story of a child that explained why dogs don't live as long as humans and ultimately it has to do with their capacity to love and their ability to learn to love. I believe that animals and you are a gift. An opportunity to see some our shortcomings and to experience love and forgiveness despite it all.
From the bottom of my heart, Thank you Candy! Thank you for everything! I can't wait to see you again. I love you!
- Love,
Mom
Comments