Losing a friend!
Recently I lost my Golden Retriever of 15 years. Gracie was a wonderful friend and companion who gave so much joy to those she met. No matter how bad my day was, she was always there with her tail wagging. Gracie required very little and yet gave so much in return. Our son as a small child would tug, grab, pull and even lie on her and Gracie never left him.
Less than a year ago, I knew the time was coming that I would have to euthanize her. Her body was shutting down and I struggled with the decision. I even prayed to God to take Gracie while she slept. Someone asked me if all dogs go to heaven. I answered the question simply – “Dunno…..but I know my Gracie is in heaven” This month my wife and son said their goodbye’s and as I held Gracie in my arms and our eyes fixed on each other, Gracie took her last breath. For a brief fleeting moment, I could feel her spirit lifting upward and going home.
For me the thought of another dog in our home anytime soon was a foreign concept. Amazingly, kids have a way of processing death in a way that is surprising. That night as I was putting Jacob to bed and was preparing myself for questions about Gracie. He said “Dad…. Gracie was your dog and she was awesome. But I think it’s time for me to have a dog!” I just smiled, hugged him and said good night.
That night I looked in my bible. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:3. As I continue to mourn, I’m comforted in the fact that Gracie gave me so much more than I ever gave her. I would like to think when my time on earth ends, and as I walk up to the heavenly gates, there standing is a Golden Retriever with her tail wagging and her name is Gracie.
you can have my dog