In Life, In Death
Watson joined our family in October 1994; he left this world September 28, 2009.
Some people don't understand the place a furry friend inhabits in our hearts, but I think most do. Losing a pet is like losing a family member. Some of you may remember some of the stories I've written about Watson ("Through God's Eye's - Part 2" , "Adoration Manifestation", and "Come To Me") and the wonderful insights he provided me into God's world. Well, Watson's death was no different. He gave me glimpses of God until the very end.
Watson was a happy little guy, but was scarred by what must have happened to him before I found him on the side of a highway in southern New Mexico fifteen years ago. He brought a lot of baggage into our family. Initially, it took me thirty minutes to catch him. After assuming that the hapless pup was not going to let me catch him, I turned to my car and started walking away. I guess it was then that he figured he'd better not let me out of sight; he ran up behind me and jumped on my legs. When I turned, there was no mistaking his pleading eyes, "Take me home." And, I did.
Despite having Watson for almost fifteen years, there was always a small barrier in our relationship. I was never able to cuddle with and love on him like our others pups. Because of the baggage, filled with "who-knows-what" that burdened Watson's soul, he was always on guard. He wasn't opposed to snapping if he felt threatened or surprised by an unexpected touch. I guess that just goes to show that baggage is as cumbersome for dogs to drag around as it is for people.
Watson's past, and his resulting fearful nature, prevented us from enjoying the uninhibited joy of frolicking on the floor or the quiet ecstasy of cuddling on the couch on a cold mountain night. Watson's anxiety prevented precious moments of vulnerably and trust to ebb and flow between two loyal and loving hearts. Fear hinders relationships.
Watson helped me understand the negative impact that baggage can have in our lives. Although the heavy load that Watson carried all his life hindered the closeness of our relationship, it did not change the fact that I loved him and he loved me. It just prevented our relationship from fully developing like it should have.
In death, Watson offered me one more glorious glimpse of God. During his last night with us, he experienced a stretch of about an hour when he was very restless. I was up with him and carried him outside where, in his stupor, he stumbled around a small patch of grass in the backyard and took care of business. Upon returning to the bedroom and carefully laying him in his pseudo-sheepskin nest and I stretched out across the foot of my bed so our faces were only a couple of feet apart. I wanted Watson to feel my presence in the dark night. I stroked his back and kept my hand next to him until he once again settled in among his dreams.
The next afternoon at 3:30, Watson checked out of this world with his daddy and me tearfully stroking his dying body while the veterinarian assisted us with our sad "good-bye." In life and in death, Watson showed us so much.
Practical Christianity gets through tough times knowing that God will climb off His throne and lie across the foot of a bed so we can sense His presence during our darkest hours. Actually, He goes anywhere for His children; God's love and comfort are bound by nothing.
So, what was Watson's last lesson to me? Well, actually there were two. First, in life, we need to shed those cumbersome suitcases that hinder our earthly relationships with God and others. Second, in death, know that God is there, just like I was for Watson . . .even until the end.
Rest in peace my little one and thanks for all you taught me.
(c)2009 Shona Neff
Hi Shona. I'm so sorry for your loss. I understand what a huge, gaping hole can be left with the loss of a beloved fur-baby. The following poem gave me great comfort when I lost two last year. I hope it does the same for you.
The Rainboy 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....
~ Author Unknown
Posted by: Lauryn Abbott | October 16, 2009 at 01:11 AM
Thanks, Lauryn...that is very sweet adn I love the picture it paints.
Posted by: shona | October 20, 2009 at 12:42 AM