I received a card from a friend today that informed me of the death of her cat Vlekkie.  The oh no that sighed out of me was for the passing of this dear cat and for my friend who had seen more than her share of loss lately. 

For those of us who are animal lovers, the loss of a pet can be more devastating than the loss of some humans.  The reliance we have on our pet’s company, listening skills and unconditional love is bigger than we think.  Many times we only realize the magnitude upon their deaths.

For those who are not lucky enough to be animal lovers, I have given up trying to explain the attachment, the reliance and the sheer joy an animal can bring to your life.  I know that my life has been enriched by several animals that have gone on and I have learned from each of them.

How would I understand abandonment if I hadn’t adopted a puppy that was rejected by its mother? This same puppy taught me what fighting against the odds was all about with every bottle feeding, and lick of Nutrical off my finger.  He taught me about fighting for life and about never letting anyone die alone.

How would I have seen a better example of how to protect those that can’t protect themselves without having seen our sheppard mix, Pearl, maneuver in front of my father’s walker so that he would have a clear path.  The respect she showed his fragility resonates with me to this day.  She loved him and he her.  She taught me about second chances and to respect and care for your elders.

How would I know patience if I had never house broken a puppy.  It takes making your expectations clear, rewarding good behavior and cleaning up after unintentional accidents.  This taught me never to assume people know what you want and always try to catch people doing the right thing.

Currently I am learning how to trust and gain trust from two rescue girls found on the streets.  I’m learning self reliance, confidence and command so that I can pass those on to them.  I’m learning how to be comfortable with myself so they can be comfortable too.  I’m learning peace and routine and eating on a schedule.  I’m learning the value of exercise and the pleasure of walking every day.  Mostly, I’m learning to laugh out loud.

At some point I will have to say goodbye to these girls too.  I will hold them in my arms and watch them slip off to heaven knowing that I have gained far more from them than they have from me.  I will feel the sorrow fully, as I know my friend is, but I will know that pain will become part of the fabric of my experience and I will be the better for having known and cared for them.

To Toby, Pearl, Murphy, Leika, and Vlekkie we are eternally grateful.