Two dogs left their yard seeking adventure. One came home alive.
My friend found his family’s other dog (dead) after an extensive search. I was feeling sad and out of sorts at a hotel in New York City and had to call Pepper at the farm where she was staying.
“Hi Pep, how are you?” I asked. “I wanted to check in.”
“I’m fine,” she answered, out of breath. “I’ve been chasing my friends. And they’ve been chasing me. None of them are as fast as me,” she bragged.
“You are fast,” I agreed. “Faster than the dogs in New York, I’m sure of it. They are small and fluffy and ride in strollers. The others trot along on their leashes in a sophisticated and world-weary manner. They’ve seen it all and are not impressed.”
“I haven’t seen it all!” Pep replied. “I would be impressed! Will you take me to New York City? It would be a grand adventure.”
“I’m actually feeling kind-of sad about adventures,” I admitted. “Sometimes they don’t end the way you expect. And sometimes an adventure can go horribly awry.” I told her about the little dog who didn’t come home and how distraught my friend and his family are.
“Oh no,” she said quietly, and couldn’t say anything else. Nor could I.
“We have to pray for his family,” she finally offered, “with our very best prayers.”
“At Thanksgiving we can talk about the little dog and be thankful for him and his adventurous spirit and all the love he shared with his family,” I added.
“Then we can cuddle and you can sneak me some turkey,” Pep suggested.
“Yes,” I said. “It isn’t enough. And – maybe it is.”
* * *
Rest in peace, Oreo (2009-2016). You were greatly loved and loving.
While I am sorry of the sad nature of Pepper’s post today, I do enjoy hearing from her and would like to see more from her. I think she could do so much more in the literary realm.
Thank you for the very kind encouragement, Brent – I will for sure let her know! xo
Pepper is a wise dog with a kind heart. Happiest of Thanksgivings to her and her whole family. And warm hugs and deep condolences to the family who lost their dog.
Mary, I will for sure convey your sympathy. And thank you so much for all of your warm wishes. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving as well! xo
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Dave, I sense that you are a man of few words. 🙂 Thank you. Xo
Since we received a terminal diagnosis today for our beloved Rocky, a Maine coon cat that we’ve had for 10 years who is most likely 17 or so, this post is especially poignant. Thank you for sharing. Appreciate your prayers that Rocky’s demise will come as painlessly as possible.
I know you must be so sad today. I will absolutely pray for your family and for Rocky to pass gently. xo