Grief

Losing Norman has been by far the most devistating thing I've ever been through. I can't even begin to put into words the pain I feel. And I only had this dog for a month...

I thought I heard his collar tags clinging when we were at the lake the other day. I kept looking over my shoulder to be sure. Not to mention as I write this... how badly I miss him laying beside me. He always got up as close as he could, put his butt on me, and laid down.

I miss doing agility with him. He was so funny. He would squat down, in a play position, before he zoomed into the tunnel. Oh he loved agility! His tail would wag the entire time, he was so proud of himself. I was proud too. I can't believe how quickly he learned the course.

Why do people get dogs and then think they don't have to train them? How can someone allow their dog to growl and hide for 5 years and not do anything? Norman spent almost all day hidden behind a couch in his original home. He would only come out to steal something, which he'd growl over. Not to mention this dog was completely hand shy... gee, I wonder why. What a horrible way to live. Norman had such potential to be a wonderful dog, and they ruined him.

But I know he is free now, and I should let him go. It is just too hard to let him go.

Norman, wherever you are, I'm so sorry it turned out this way. I hope you are truely happy now, please don't be afraid anymore. No one will ever hurt you again. Be happy, be free, and be loved. As I told you on Thursday... I'll see you later sweet boy.

Don't grieve too long for now I'm free

I've followed the path God set for me

I ran to him when I heard his call

I swished my tail and left it all.

I could not stay another day

To bark, to love, to romp or play

Games left unplayed must stay that way

I found such peace, it made my day.

My partings has left you with a void

Please fill it with remembered joy

A friendship shared, your laugh, a kiss

Oh yes, these things I too shall miss.

Be not burdened with ties of sorrow

I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow

My life's been full, you've given so much

Your time, your love and gentle touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief

Don't lengthen it now with undue grief

Lift up your head and share with me

God wanted me, he set me free!
Author Unknown

Goodbye Norman

In Loving Memory of Norman

June 21, 2001 ~ May 17, 2007

Our beloved first foster dog

With heavy hearts; and a tear in our eyes

after all these years; we must say goodbye

Please understand; we've done all we could

if there was anything we could do; you know we would

I'm sitting right here; gently rub your ears

while I talk to you softly; trying to hold back the tears

The memories you gave us; we'll never forget

especially the ones; of the day we all met

One last hug; and one last kiss

you have no idea; how much you'll be missed

To look into your eyes; this one last time

you tell me it's ok; you know it's your time

Close your eyes now; and go to sleep

we'll pray to the Lord; you're soul he'll keep

Go in peace now; our good friend

we'll stay right here with you; until the end

Dream of that special day and time

when we'll meet at the Bridge; and all will be fine

We'll run and play; side by side

with a soft warm feeling; deep down inside

Your memory will live on; in each one of us

you'll always be number 1; to all of us

Have a safe journey; through the night

I promise when you awake; you'll be in God's light

So with heavy hearts; and tears in our eyes

just for now my friend; we say goodbye
(c)John Quealy