Livin’ the dream …
But she had to die; I just wish it could have been one of those storybook, peaceful bedside moments we hope so much for but seldom experience. I might have made her body linger a bit longer thanks to the miracle of science, but why?
She was sliding downhill fast, stumbling about, inglorious in any dignity her life once possessed. Breathing for breath’s sake, or perhaps mine. Not a life worthy of a worthy life lived, but an impending demise lacking any of the mercy most of us deserve. She was trying to tell us something through her eyes…
She gave the love she knew to those who loved her and was always there to provide of what she was able. One small part of the world we know was graced by what she possessed.
A look into those eyes was enough to find the beauty of her soul and though clouded with age toward the end, the inner spirit never faded. Just the body.
And though she couldn’t say it on the last night of her life, the hope remains that she knew, and wanted us to know, the end is now, and she was content.
But why was it left to a human decision as to the time and place? An appointment made for her last moment on earth- 10:30 on a Saturday.
The reasons she wouldn’t leave conveniently on her own are best left to those who talk too much yet say nothing. Words of council hyberbolized upon a foundation of self-help books and Dr. Phil. Just words.
She was carried into the bright, cheery room at the appointed hour by those who loved her. And in 10 minutes it was over.
Her final breath decided by a human. But she was only a cat. Just an animal. So what?
Dealing with an animal requires one to act as such and Annie was a good teacher.
Actions based not upon human drama or encumbered by the emotional games people play, but principled on unconditional love.
She loved all while being loved by all.
And the lessons learned from just an animal sometimes seem better suited for life’s challenges than the teachings of those humans who think they know better.
Goodbye, Annie.
We had a good run and I received more knowledge from you than you could have possibly gleaned from me. I can only hope the lesson of your love will not be in vain.
But she had to die. Just wish it could have been …
