Wednesday, September 3, 2008

No Regrets


The Vigil for Miss M. (our Black Lab) has ended. Although she had not yet appeared to slip into suffering, it was clear she was not comfortable and her quality of life was lacking. It was obvious there was no chance of improvement. We called on our Vet for help since her natural exit from this life was unclear in timing.

Last night before going to bed, I laid on the living room floor next to Miss M and had a chat. I thanked her for unconditionally loving me. I thanked her for happily greeting me when I walked in the door, for her faithful companionship on my walks, for the joy she gave me and my husband in watching her run and play. I thanked her for demonstrating living in the moment with complete and utter gratitude and joy. I told her that I was sad to let her go and that I wished we had more time. As I laid with her sharing what was in my heart, she lifted a front leg and rested it on my shoulder. It almost seemed like a friend, putting their arm around me as a gesture of love.

Now that this chapter of my life is over I'm reflecting on whether it's worth it. Without question, although I feel sad right now writing this, I have no regrets. It is worth it, without question, to have had the experience of love and companionship that I have had.

Losing our pets and our human friends and family members is part of life. It goes with the territory of living fully. My life is fuller because of the relationships I have and I will continue to grow and learn, to feel, and experience so much more as a result of giving love and receiving love. I am grateful, and in this moment, peacefully satisfied.

2 comments:

Beverly Keaton Smith said...

sending you tons of hugs Kate. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. You have written about it in a moving and touching way it is a lovely tribute to your beloved Ms. M.

lost in leetonia said...

The "boys" Leo and Scooter send you dog kisses from Leetonia!