I don't know what I ever thought this day would be like. I just always knew it was coming, and I knew it would be difficult. I could not have known it would also have moments of peace and joy. Like the space between the notes that makes music, the joy and the pain make life, don't they?
Moseley came down with canine geriatric vestibular disorder back in November. Usually lasting three weeks, hers came to stay. Over the months, she has learned to compensate, but she has had only limited and sporadic improvements, staggering and falling, and between this and chronic arthritis, the old girl has been impaired.
This has been an extraordinarily difficult decision. She has imparted a reminder that life is temporary, and when it ends for someone you love, the qualities we cherish remain in our actions. She said "look I cannot walk anymore, but if YOU will walk, I will be there". I believe that with all my heart.
I adopted her in 1997, and within a few days discovered I was channeling her wisdom that became "Moseley's Tips for Living". She has always been my muse, inspiration, teacher, and source for wisdom. Even today she teaches courage, meaning, strength, dignity and unconditional love. Loyalty and Unconditional Love are the greatest lessons.
We're headed out for a ride in the car, now, all windows down, savoring. We are going to spend this day loving each other and celebrating this amazing life together.
I am not going to spend alot of time writing, but I was compelled when I realized she has one more lesson to offer: enjoy your loved ones today. Forgive them easily, love them mightily, live your life with integrity, joy, meaning, wisdom, faith, hope, loyalty and always in loving, abiding friendship.
Oh Jeannie, I'm so so sorry. I know you will handle this with all the grace and love that Moseley has imparted to you, but it's still one of the hardest things you'll ever do. I feel lucky to have met her and I also feel sure that Maddy and Scout will greet her with open paws, bring her a frisbee and chase all the squirrels with her. Sending all my love...xoxox
Posted by: holly | April 16, 2010 at 10:39 AM