Deaths in the Family
February 19, 2004
He was a good animal, silky and grey, who hunted the woods around her house and brought small moles and mice back to her house as offerings. He was the most dog-like and friendly cat I've met.
She buried him in the small pet cemetery in her back yard. It has headstones from the 1920s and now contains about nine bodies, including that of my sister's cat.
This morning, as Jack is sleeping over at his friend Cosmo's house, Patti went in to feed Tiger, his goldfish, and discovered him, belly up. Here it is, a few weeks from the anniversary of Frank's death and we are petless. Only Miranda's small, brain-addled cat remains.
Mum is resolved to get no future pets. Patti and I grow more and more attracted to passing mutts in the street but it'll probably be a while before we act. Jack wants a Chihuahua.
A record of my exploration into all aspects of drawing, illustrated journaling, creativity, and the inspiring aspects of art. By the author of "Everyday Matters," "The Creative License", and "An Illustrated Life" and other books.
Comments
How lucky we are to have had such special pets in our lives. Longevity really counts when you care for a pet- they rely so unconditionally on our love and care. I like to think human spirituality is at its best with our pets. Forget all the scientific and technological means available to keep us humans alive and "better" than ourselves sometimes.
Pets are the symbol of life being kept alive with love, acceptance, and respect. Someday I hope this will work better for humanity.
Compassion rules! I miss all our animals and I don't look forward to telling jack about Tiger.
Posted by: patti Gregory | February 19, 2004 07:46 AM
My condolences to the family. I understand that losing a pet can be just as hard as losing a person we love.
When returning from a recent trip, my husband and I had to admit to my in-laws that we were missing our dogs more than anything else. They totally understood though, because these two "wibbles" are really our immediate family. They have such character and give unconditional love. Make us double over with laughter and we always appreciate the way they just "go with the flow" most of the time.
As long as people have time, a little effort, and lots of love to give on a daily basis, pets can enrich lives immeasurably! Even small hairless dogs..I guess? Never had one!:-)
Posted by: Amy | February 19, 2004 10:51 AM
This afternoon our cat of 16 years will be put to sleep. His unidentified illness has weakened him so much he is skin and bones and has little control of his hind legs. As you well know, the loss of such a long-lived feline friend is hard to accept. The memory of his antics over the years will continue to entertain us, but his absence will be profound. If only he had gone in his sleep...
Posted by: rita | February 19, 2004 01:14 PM
This afternoon our cat of 16 years will be put to sleep. His unidentified illness has weakened him so much he is skin and bones and has little control of his hind legs. As you well know, the loss of such a long-lived feline friend is hard to accept. The memory of his antics over the years will continue to entertain us, but his absence will be profound. If only he had gone in his sleep...
Posted by: rita | February 19, 2004 01:15 PM
Condolences to the Gregorys and Rita for their recent losses of dear ones. One of our Best Cats Ever, Fishtoes, died of feline leukemia 6 years ago and the tears still feel like yesterday. They will always be in our hearts. I remember the picture you drew of Fred when you visited on your mum's birthday, Danny. I'm glad you shared your drawing of him with us.
Posted by: Karen Winters | February 19, 2004 07:20 PM