Goodbye Dear Friend

It's a personal post this time, an outpouring of grief may sound a tad dramatic, but this is one nonetheless. Reggie, one of my Shelties passed away today. He became a part of our family 12 years and 2 months ago at the age of 12 years and 4 months. He brought us unconditional love and joy and was a loyal friend...till the very end. Mild-mannered and friendly, Reggie was an instant favourite even amongst those who didn't like pets. His affectionate nature endeared him to everyone. He didn't have a mean bone in his body and was never known to snap, let alone bite a living soul. He wasn't of a very strong constitution physically, and at the age of 6 months, broke his front left paw, still the effervescent spot of sunshine that he was, kept limping with a plaster cast attached to his leg. Despite this, Reggie went on to win 3 Local, 2 National and 1 International Dog Shows. His sober nature was always a credit to him, even at the Dog Shows. He was terrified of thunder and lightning, and in the event of either of them occurring, one would find him running at top speed to hide under my bed, or in desperate measures, behind the commode in one of the toilets.

It's strange how one, of another species, endears itself so much to us. Their loyalty, dedication and selfless love are areas where we human beings are often found lacking. This is the second dog I've lost, and I can say, each time their loss is equally painful. I treasure each day I spent with Reggie. The instant sense of mirth and upliftment one felt in his company cannot be expressed in words. And that is what makes the sense of loss deeper. So if you can hear me, Reggie my friend, I miss you and I'll never forget you.

No longer am I at your side To roam the fields together,
But,
As you light the candles tonight,
Imagine my spirit taking flight.
Say no farewell then my friend, We will meet again,
Wish me a happy journey
To the eternal hunting fields above.