For Brian and Family

When we lose a loved one, friends, family, and clergy rally around us, offering comfort and casseroles, prayers and flowers, memorials and listening ears. But when the loved one was a dog—even a really, really good dog—we’re, for the most part, left alone to bury him and grieve.

Buddy, we’re so sorry. We miss you so much.

No one read the dog’s obituary in the paper, so they don’t understand why our hearts are so heavy. No one sees our eyes tear up whenever we see his leash or the empty spot in the truck that he loved so much. We know that our dog made the world an infinitely better place, but no one wants to help us say our good-byes with a gracious eulogy, beautiful songs, funny stories, and promises of heaven.

Buddy, you were special—so cheerful, fun-loving, beautiful. You loved us all.

We’re expected to ignore the giant lump in our throats, and to get out of bed and go about our lives as if nothing much happened because, after all, he was just a dog.

Buddy, we love you. If you’re in heaven with Dad, give him our love.

BUDDY (2000—2013)

“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”                                 –2 CORINTHIANS 1:4