the impermanence of things

though we choose not to think along these lines we pretty much know that as soon someone or something is born - it will die.  This thought may be considered pretty morose even for those of strong faith in the hereafter.  But the fact remains that which lives also dies.  So what do we do with that ?  We live and we make it count !  We do the best we can with what we know and what we have to work with and we live with the ups and downs.

Sounds pretty straight forward right ?  We all know life isn't that simple to categorize.

Yesterday one of my best friends lost her beautiful pet.  His name was Austin and he was a retired and rescued greyhound.  He lived to almost 16 years old, thanks to the tireless care and love he got from his master CVG.  His body had gotten very very tired but his spirit was evident in his beaming brown eyes and alert expression.  Most people would have had him put down quite some time ago.  Not CVG.  Sure his body was tired but just look at his face, that face full of life !  Together they endured.

She got a call yesterday that it was time and she needed to come home.  He waited for her.  There were no more options because his body had nothing left.  he could not stand or get himself water.  He had waited for her.  So she stroked under his chin the way he liked and buried her head there the way she did.  And afterwards she worried that she may have forgotten to gently stroke his floppy ears.  I told her she did everything.  Maybe his ears were alert for what was to come - for what he could look forward to.

The loss of a beloved pet with its unwaivering loyalty can be one of the hardest emotional blows a person can take.   They bring so much simple happiness to those around them.  I think there a lesson there for all of us.  Enjoy all the simple things and small miracles around us every moment.  I'm not saying we should start chasing squirrells or cars but how about starting fresh every time we see someone we love.  Dogs don't hold grudges, they just love, and in return they are loved.

RIP Austin - you were the most beautiful greyhound I have ever know.  Rest easy now.