A member of our family passed away on Tuesday afternoon, November 3rd. Winnie came to live with us about thirteen years ago when she was little more than a kitten. It was supposed to be a temporary arrangement. Just until our daughter could find an apartment that allowed pets. But she and my wife quickly bonded and Judy refused to give her up.
Next to me, she was my wife's best friend. Well, that is probably wishful thinking on my part. The truth is I was most likely number two and I think Winnie knew it.
She was just as much a part of our family as any human member. I know that is hard for some people to understand unless you are empty nesters like my wife and I. Winnie helped fill the void left when all the kids moved out of the house and two states away. She joined our family before the grandchildren were born and they have never been in our house without Winnie there.
It is amazing how you can get so attached to an animal.....or is it really. After all, they give you countless hours of companionship, unconditional love and absolute loyalty and all they ask in return is water in their bowl, a little food in their pan and an occasional well placed scratch behind the ear.
We buried Winnie in the back yard, under the steps leading up to the tree house, where the Little Girls have spent so much time playing. She had a good time out there earlier on that last day of her life, swatting at butterflies and chasing a young curious squirrel until she was exhausted. I think she would be pleased.
Children often ask if there will be animals in heaven, especially dogs and cats. I don't know, but I can't imagine it any other way.
1 comment:
I know exactly how you feel. Tim and I currently have a Shih Tzu that we obtained through an Animal Rescue place. They believed she was 7 years old when I got her and we have had her for 5 years now. She was my Christmas present and she is the best present I have ever received. She is my baby! I know she is getting old and it won't be long now when she will depart this earth. I also like to believe there will be animals in heaven.
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