— You Don’t Just Lose Someone Once --
You lose them over and over,
sometimes many times a day.
When the loss, momentarily forgotten,
creeps up,
and attacks you from behind.
Fresh waves of grief as the realisation hits home,
they are gone.
Again.
You don’t just lose someone once,
you lose them every time you open your eyes to a new dawn,
and as you awaken,
so does your memory,
so does the jolting bolt of lightning that rips into your heart,
they are gone.
Again.
Losing someone is a journey,
not a one-off.
There is no end to the loss,
there is only a learned skill on how to stay afloat,
when it washes over.
Be kind to those who are sailing this stormy sea,
they have a journey ahead of them,
and a daily shock to the system each time they realise,
they are gone,
Again.
You don’t just lose someone once,
you lose them every day,
for a lifetime.
© Donna Ashworth Words
You lose them over and over,
sometimes many times a day.
When the loss, momentarily forgotten,
creeps up,
and attacks you from behind.
Fresh waves of grief as the realisation hits home,
they are gone.
Again.
You don’t just lose someone once,
you lose them every time you open your eyes to a new dawn,
and as you awaken,
so does your memory,
so does the jolting bolt of lightning that rips into your heart,
they are gone.
Again.
Losing someone is a journey,
not a one-off.
There is no end to the loss,
there is only a learned skill on how to stay afloat,
when it washes over.
Be kind to those who are sailing this stormy sea,
they have a journey ahead of them,
and a daily shock to the system each time they realise,
they are gone,
Again.
You don’t just lose someone once,
you lose them every day,
for a lifetime.
© Donna Ashworth Words
If I Didn't Have A Dog
If I didn't have a dog I could walk around the back yard barefoot without worry. My house could be carpeted instead of tiled. My clothing, furniture and other belongings would be free of hair.
When the doorbell rings, my home wouldn't sound like a kennel. I could sit on the couch or lie in my bed the way I want to, without taking into consideration how much space she needs to be comfortable. I would not have strange presents under the Christmas tree like bones, stuffed animals, toys and treats...nor would I have to explain why I wrap them.
I would have no guilt about going on vacation. I would not be on a first name basis with three veterinarians, as I put their kids through college. The most used words in my vocabulary would not be sit, stay, down, come, go pee pee.
My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates and barriers. My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats, and an extra leash. My house wouldn't look like a daycare center with toys strewn everywhere. I would not have to spell out the words, BALL, Treat, bye-bye, walk.
If I didn't have a dog.... how truly empty my life would be.
If I didn't have a dog I could walk around the back yard barefoot without worry. My house could be carpeted instead of tiled. My clothing, furniture and other belongings would be free of hair.
When the doorbell rings, my home wouldn't sound like a kennel. I could sit on the couch or lie in my bed the way I want to, without taking into consideration how much space she needs to be comfortable. I would not have strange presents under the Christmas tree like bones, stuffed animals, toys and treats...nor would I have to explain why I wrap them.
I would have no guilt about going on vacation. I would not be on a first name basis with three veterinarians, as I put their kids through college. The most used words in my vocabulary would not be sit, stay, down, come, go pee pee.
My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates and barriers. My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats, and an extra leash. My house wouldn't look like a daycare center with toys strewn everywhere. I would not have to spell out the words, BALL, Treat, bye-bye, walk.
If I didn't have a dog.... how truly empty my life would be.
A Puppy's Prayer
Now
i lay me down to sleep
the
king-size bed is soft and deep.
I
sleep right in the center groove
my
human being can hardly move!
I've
trapped her legs, she's tucked in tight
and
here is where i pass the night.
No
one disturbs me or dare intrude.
Till
morning comes and i want food.
I
sneak up slowly to begin
and
nibble on my humans chin.
She
wakes up quickly, i have sharp teeth.
I'm
a puppy don't you see.
For
mornings here and it's time to play.
I
always seem to get my way.
So
thank you lord for giving me
this
human person that i see.
The
one who hugs and holds me tight
and
shares my bed with me at night.
Amen
Author
unknown
NOBODY'S DOG
Today is the death day of nobody's dog
Nothing will mark it but a note in the log
I'm faceless and nameless and no tears will fall
For I know in your world I have no worth at all To you, my sweet someone, I'm a friend and a dear
We ran the wind daily and you held me so near
But the gate was left open - I chanced a walk on my own
I'd have cowered in fear if only I'd known I know how you cried on the night that I strayed
I know how you searched, I know how you prayed
But I went to a pound far from our home
Where I crouched in despair in my kennel alone I know that you phoned for I heard your dear voice
And I hoped you would hear me so I barked myself hoarse
Although I'm a Lab cross with stockings all white
On their form I'm a Staff cross - the description's not right So they said I'm not here and I sank to my bed
My kennel cough's worse and I can't raise my head
The rescue came yesterday but they hadn't a place
For an un-neutered cross breed with his mucus-streaked face If only you'd come to search for me here
You would have known me at once, you would have sensed I was near
You would have sorted my ills, you would have carried me home
And I promise our God no more would I roam Now my eyes plead for mercy for my seven days are done
And I am waiting with dread for the final vet run
No arms will caress me as they inject me to death
No words will comfort me as I take my last breath When the body man comes, it is fitting I'm found
In a bin bag in the freezer in the depths of the pound
Thrown away like the rubbish - no respect and no shame
Denied even the time to find you again My loyalty and devotion they did cruelly betray
Without microchip or nametag, I am just a dispensable stray
Once waggy-tailed, once proud, beloved and free
Oh Dad look with pain at what mankind's done to me!
What a story ❤❤❤
WHY DOGS LIVE LESS THAN HUMAN
Here's the surprising answer of a 6 year old child.
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog’s owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn’t do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker‘s family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker’s Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that dogs' lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ”I know why.”
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I’d never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.
He said, ”People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?” The six-year-old continued,
”Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay for as long as we do.”
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
• When your loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
• Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
• Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
• Take naps.
• Stretch before rising.
• Run, romp, and play daily.
• Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
• Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
• On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
• On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
• When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
• Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
• Be faithful.
• Never pretend to be something you’re not.
• If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
• When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
That's the secret of happiness that we can learn from a good dog.
Found this story on Facebook
had to share
Rainbow Bridge Poems
I stood by you
I stood by your bed last night, I came to have a peep.
I could see that you were crying, You found it hard to sleep.
I whined to you softly as you brushed away a tear,
"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here." I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea,
You were thinking of the many times, your hands reached down to me.
I was with you at the shops today, Your arms were getting sore.
I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more. I was with you at my grave today, You tend it with such care.
I want to re-assure you, that I'm not lying there.
I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key.
I gently put my paw on you, I smiled and said " it's me." You looked so very tired, and sank into a chair.
I tried so hard to let you know, that I was standing there.
It's possible for me, to be so near you everyday.
To say to you with certainty, "I never went away."
You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew...
In the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you. The day is over... I smile and watch you yawning
and say "good-night, God bless, I'll see you in the morning."
And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide,
I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand, side by side.
I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see. Be patient, live your journey out...then come home to be with me. Author ~ Missing You poem By Colleen Fitzsimmons/ In memory of Shadow & Sexy Sadie
A SPECIAL PLACE
You have a special place, Dear Lord
that I know you always keep.
A special place reserved for dogs,
to peacefully fall asleep.
A place with fluffy pillows,
and a yard for hiding bones.
With maybe a little babbling creek,
that rushes over stones.
With wide green fields and flowers,
for those who never knew,
of running, playing freely,
under a sky of perfect blue.
Lord, I know you keep this special place,
and so to you I pray,
for one oh so special dog,
who came to you today.
She was full of strength and love,
and so very, very wise.
The puppy look she once had,
this morning left her eyes.
She will be dearly missed, Dear Lord,
This special love of mine.
But, now she'll romp and play,
in your land that's so divine.
Speak to my baby softly, please
with a hug and a warm hello.
She's a special gift to you, dear Lord,
from me-who loved her so.
— with Kandace Vincinere Westhoff and 4 others.
The Last Battle
If it should be that I grow weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle cannot be won. You will be sad, I understand;
Don't let your grief then stay your hand.
For this day more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test. We've had so many happy years -
What is to come can hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so;
The time has come, so let me go. Take me where my needs they'll tend
And please stay with me until the end.
Hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see. I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you did for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved. Please do not grieve - it must be you
Who had this painful thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years -
Don't let your heart hold back its tears. Author Unknown
A Letter from in Heaven:
To my dearest mommy, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from the Bridge with Sienna.
Here I dwell with God above.
Here there are no more tears of sadness.
Here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning,
noon and night.
That day I had to leave you
when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me
and He said, "I welcome you.
It's good to have you back again;
you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they’ll be here later on."
God gave me a list of things that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night
the day's chores put to flight,
God and I are closest to you...in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth,
and all those loving years,
because you are only human,
they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry: it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers,
unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all what God has planned.
If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain,
though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are rocky roads ahead of you
and many hills to climb.
But together we can do it
by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy
and I'd like it for you too;
Author Unknown
Dog going to heaven
Please don't cry because I left you,
I simply had a job to do,
I had to cross over to heaven,
To get things ready for you,
If anyone in the world knows you,
It would certainly be me,
Look at all those hours I spent,
Laying at your feet,
God only puts us together a little while,
And of me you were always so proud,
Down there is where I stole your heart away,
Up here we will dance on the clouds,
I am already staying at your mansion,
There are other animals here too,
All of us have one thing in common,
We had the best owner ever....YOU!
I am not sure when we will meet again,
Each day down there is a gift,
I am waiting with anticipation,
To give you your first heavenly puppy kiss!
There is one sure way to mend your heartache,
And to keep you from being so sad,
Go find another pup eventually,
Give them the same special life I had!
Thank you for making my life with you,
Special every single day,
Like always I will meet you at the front door,
When God brings you up this way!!!
Author Unknown
Thank you for spending your life with me,
The great times will not be forgotten,
I hope you will always think of me as the one who spoiled you rotten,
You were always by my side,
With you I was never alone,
Now its my turn to be by your side ,
As you take your final journey home.
See God only keeps you here a little while,
And I'm glad you spent it with me,
But your past year has been a bit rough,
As everyone could see.
But you were strong and courageous.
And never left my side,
I saw everything you were going through,
That pain you could never hide.
You've been the best friend I could ask for,
You never asked for much,
When I was down or even sick, you provided the most gentle touch.
Your journey isn't over yet,
You're going where there is no pain,
I know this humongous loss for me,
Will be all of heavens gain.
I will be right here as you cross over,
And be praying to God above,
To hold you in his arms tonight, and give you lots of love,
I will even remind him,
Of all of your favorite things,
So you will have plenty to keep you busy,
As you listen to the Angels sing.
Well it's time now and it's killing me,
This pain it cuts so deep,
I must remember , you're not gone forever,
You're just going to sleep.
Do me one favor if you don't mind,
And save a place for me!
But the thing I want for you the most,
Is to run free precious one,
RUN FREE!!
Dedicated to everyone facing the challenge of (letting go).
Author Unknown
The great times will not be forgotten,
I hope you will always think of me as the one who spoiled you rotten,
You were always by my side,
With you I was never alone,
Now its my turn to be by your side ,
As you take your final journey home.
See God only keeps you here a little while,
And I'm glad you spent it with me,
But your past year has been a bit rough,
As everyone could see.
But you were strong and courageous.
And never left my side,
I saw everything you were going through,
That pain you could never hide.
You've been the best friend I could ask for,
You never asked for much,
When I was down or even sick, you provided the most gentle touch.
Your journey isn't over yet,
You're going where there is no pain,
I know this humongous loss for me,
Will be all of heavens gain.
I will be right here as you cross over,
And be praying to God above,
To hold you in his arms tonight, and give you lots of love,
I will even remind him,
Of all of your favorite things,
So you will have plenty to keep you busy,
As you listen to the Angels sing.
Well it's time now and it's killing me,
This pain it cuts so deep,
I must remember , you're not gone forever,
You're just going to sleep.
Do me one favor if you don't mind,
And save a place for me!
But the thing I want for you the most,
Is to run free precious one,
RUN FREE!!
Dedicated to everyone facing the challenge of (letting go).
Author Unknown