In Others' Words

I've been unable to write anything about our decision to grant Casey his retirement from this life as of tomorrow afternoon because it's simply too much to give words to right now.  So instead, I'll share two things that two different loving friends have shared with me this past week.  Both pieces are fairly well known already, and they're less "sophisticated" than I usually appreciate.  But I find that my usual snobbish bias towards sophisticated writing is irrelevant and even detrimental in this situation because it would keep me from comforts offered, comforts that are worth a lot whether sophisticated or not.  (I can't attribute either to their original author, unfortunately, so they remain "Author unknown.")

1)  Rainbow Bridge:

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

2)  Things We Can Learn from a Dog:

• Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride. 
• Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
• When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
• When it's in your best interest, always practice obedience.
• Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
• Take naps and always stretch before rising.
• Run, romp, and play daily.
• Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
• Be loyal. 
• Never pretend to be something you're not.
• If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
• When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
• Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
• Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
• Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
• On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
• When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
• No matter how often you are criticized, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.

Casey the Dog, 1997-2013

(And I add to this list:)

• Stop being so sophisticated.  Life is too short to waste on self-imposed standards. 

Life is too short.  Period.  Make the most of it while you've got it, like Casey has.  In reply to one of our favorite New Yorker cartoons:

 

Casey was a GREAT dog.