Zack

Sometimes, dogs come into our lives for reasons we cannot know while they are with us. When they leave us, which is always too soon, no matter their age, we look for reasons so we may understand why we must grieve their loss. But, there are no reasons to be understood, while our hearts ache with their loss. Familiar routines are forever changed when they leave us, but soon, if we allow ourselves, we find the answers that will soothe our soul.

I believe, that dogs are here to teach us about ourselves and to provide us with a message. The message might be that no matter how unloved we may feel, they will love us unconditionally. Or, it might be that we don't know how to love, but through them we learn acceptance, and we allow ourselves the freedom of open expression of love and caring. Whatever the message, and I believe it is unique to the dog and the family members, it is a message that we need to receive and welcome when we truly want to close our hearts to the pain and sadness of loss. But is it just this time that we should open our hearts! For their work is now done, and they have left us with the tools, and the food for our soul to live a better life! ~ Fran Iwanicki- Alford

A Loan From God

God promised at the birth of time,
A special friend to give,
His time on earth is short, He said,
So love him while he lives.

It may be six or seven years,
Or twelve or the sixteen,
But will you, till I call him back,
Take care of him for me?

A wagging tail and cold wet nose,
And silken velvet ears,
A heart as big as all outdoors,
To love you through the years.

His puppy ways will gladden you,
And antics bring a smile,
As guardian or friend he will,
Be loyal all the while.

He'll bring his charms to grace your life,
And though his stay be brief,
When he's gone the memories,
Are solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But lessons only a dog can teach,
I want you each to learn.

Whatever love you give to him,
Returns in triple measure.
Follow his lead and gain a life,
Brim full of simple pleasure.

Enjoy each day as it comes,
Allow your heart to guide,
Be loyal and steadfast in love,
As the dog there by your side.

Now will you give him all your love,
Nor think the labor vain,
Nor hate Me when I come to call,
To take him back again?

I fancy each of us would say,
"Dear Lord, thy will be done,
For all the joy this dog shall bring,
The risk of grief we'll run."

We'll shelter him with tenderness,
We'll love him while we may,
And for the happiness we've known,
Forever grateful stay."

"But shall the Angels call for him,
Much sooner than we've planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that comes,
And try to understand."

Author Unknown