Thursday, June 25, 2009

The Rainbow Bridge

BJ sent me the saddest text message Tuesday.

Max got sick. Very very sick. I had to put him to sleep this morning. But he's very much at peace now. Thank God. Talk to you soon.

Max was BJ's goofy loveable basset hound. He was the quintessential cartoon version of a basset hound.

Short.
Squat.
Fat.
Sleepy-eyed.
And just a little dumb.

When BJ would talk in his voice, she'd make him sound like a toothless slack-jawed yokel. It really did suit him.

Sadly, this is the second dog in a short period of time that her family has lost.
It's heartbreaking.

I came across this piece quite a while ago, and I fell in love with it.
I hope this helps you, BJ.
Like I said to you, I really do think Bailey is taking good care of him and they're cavorting all over the place together.


* * *

Just this side of Heaven is a place called the Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies, that had been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to the 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 that have been ill and old are restored to health and vigour; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of the 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 up into the distance. His bright eyes are intent, his eager body begins to quiver. 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 in your heart.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together.

5 comments:

Sabrina said...

ACK! This made me cry! I dread losing my cat.

Evil Twin's Wife said...

It's always heartbreaking to lose a beloved pet / member of the family. My thoughts and prayers go out to BJ and her family.

Angie said...

Beautiful story....and so comforting. I told him about all the fun he was going to have on the other side. And by the expression on his face after the needle went in, I think he arrived safely.

Anonymous said...

So sorry. Pets become members of the family and when they are gone, something just does not feel right. Poor BJ.

Dani said...

What a beautiful place. A beautiful image to keep in mind when one has lost someone beloved, pet or otherwise. *Sniff* Thank you.