It’s so true how you can take life for granted.
Cliche’s are the truth and this one speaks volumes.

Today my dog passed away, and although I knew it was soon and inevitable with her old age, when I finally got that call, I couldn’t help but fall into tears. You can never fully prepare for the loss of a life — emotions you never knew were there come in the darkest of hours to engulf you. I wish I had been more kind, spent more time, learned to embrace a little more often. I miss my dog: Snoopy.

Yet as I reflect, I can only recall the good times. Peaceful, fun memories of my dog stand out the most, and in that respect, I am really proud of her life and our relationship. We got her on Sept. 10 when I was only in the 5th grade. In those first days, we stared at each other from across the room, and she would bark at me as if I were a total stranger. She would climb and jump across the couches like a wild beast, far beyond my ability to tame. But as time grew on, she learned to cuddle with me on my seat. She sat behind my back while I was in my chair, clinging to warmth, showing such affection that only a close bond could recreate. She would learn our silly language like “shi shi.” That was the signal for her to go out to the backyard. Opening the drawer above the cereal meant that it was time for her walk which made her enthralled and immediately she would run to the gate, waiting to be released upon the world. She also had a habit of crawling under my covers as I slept. She just wanted to be close; as do we all in need of affection. These are but a glimpse among countless memories and stories of her life: all positive, all in my heart, all worth cherishing forever.

I will truly miss my dog, yet I feel a bit foolish for crying over an animal, resorting to hiding away my tears from the crowd. I hate myself for feeling this way. By holding that mentality, am I not bringing insult to her life? Rather, I shouldn’t be ashamed. I should acknowledge the life and loss of true family, and in that regard I am right to mourn.

May she rest in peace, wherever peace resides.
She is a beacon of joy and a symbol of a beautiful past.