Recently our family’s beloved dog Stella had to be put down. Although it is a hard decision to have to make, I am sure it was the right one as I believe that the measure of a happy life lies in the quality, far above the quantity.
Stella may not be with us any more but she has left us with the legacy of valuable lessons that can be translated into our own lives.
1. Whomever you love, love them unconditionally.
Stella didn’t care what we looked like or how we behaved – she loved us.
2. Always be happy and excited to see your loved ones when they arrive home. Whenever I came home Stella would be there, peering in at the back door, jowls’ pulled back into a big smile, ears up and her tail wagging from side to side. How do you greet the ones you love when they come home?
3. When you are with someone give them your full attention. Stop what you are doing. Look into their eyes and listen to what the person is saying.
When I spoke to Stella she would prick up her ears, stare at me intently and be poised ready to leap into action.
4. Be thankful.
Stella never complained about things (not even a whine). She was grateful for whatever time or attention we gave her whether it was a passing pat or a morning spent together in the garden.
5. Be a faithful friend
Stella’s two favorite possessions (apart from us) were a tennis ball and a teddy.
These were precious to her so she kept them close. If by chance, they weren’t in her Hound House, she knew exactly where to find them in the garden. She valued and cared about them.
Stella was just a dog, yet we learnt so much from her.
Perhaps we can all take away a few lessons, from a furry friend who gave a lot and didn’t ask much in return.
Thanks Stell. We loved you!
Thanks for sharing those beautiful lessons from Stella, Bron!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry you had to part from her; I know what it means to lose a 4-legged friend. I'm sure, you did her a kindness, though. Can I share this "Pet Prayer" with you:
A Pet’s Prayer
If it should be, that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then, you must do what must be done
For this, the last battle, can’t be won.
You will be sad, I understand
Don’t let your grief then stay your hand,
For this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship 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,
When the time comes, please let me go.
Take me where my needs they’ll tend,
Only, Stay with me to the end,
And hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know, in time you will see,
It is a kindness you do to me
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I’ve been saved.
Don’t grieve it should be you,
Who decides this thing to do,
We’ve been so close, we two, these years,
Don’t let your heart hold any tears.
Smile, for we walked together,
For a little while.
Thank you for this wonderful time.
Thanks Susanna,
ReplyDeleteThat is a lovely poem and very comforting.
Thanks for posting it!
x Bron