Dutchess spent much of her life as my late wife’s dog, almost always at her side, often sleeping in the bend of Vickie’s knees at night. When Vickie passed away, I of course kept Dutchess and our other two dogs, Booger and Bouncer. But keeping three dogs, and trying to manage the jealousies between them, became more than I wanted to deal with, so I gave Dutchess to my son and his kids about three years ago.
This morning Dutchess passed away due to complications from diabetes. She was an incredibly sweet dog, a true member of the family, and will be missed by all of our family.
Update: As I sat around this evening playing one of my guitars and thinking of Dutchess, the following tune flowed out of me. I share it with you in memory of Dutchess: Dutchess
Rest in peace little girl.
With love,
Bruce
My girlfriend and I have three cats, and they are not just pets, they are members of the family. So I full well understand how much the loss of a four-legged friend can hurt. You have my sincerest condolences.
Bruce,
Dutchess was precious and she will be missed. I know you had even a greater attachment to Dutchess through Vickie.
The question in my mind is “Has Dutchess been reunited with Vickie?”
The key is not to seek a “definitive answer,” because there is none. The key is this: On this particular issue, where the Bible is silent, we have the right to choose the answer that seems true to us — that comforts and consoles us – that’s based on our best efforts to reason and understand God and God’s love for all creation. In the future when we enter heavens gates, God will reveal all truth.
As for me, I believe pets do go to heaven, and I believe we will see our pets again..
Thanks be to God for our pets, and for the joy and love they bring to our lives!
David
Thank you, Bill.
David, I remember how Dutchess was always so tickled to see you. Thank you for your comforting and wise thoughts. I am indeed fortunate to have such a wise and compassionate brother.
As I see something of myself in my children, so I believe God see something of Himself in us. This love for music, awe for the vast expanses above us, the tenderness we feel for animals — they make me joyous as, to quote a beautiful gospel song, “I see in you the Glory of His name”.
These feelings, these emotions, stem from God, I believe. As such I can’t help but feel God feels as tender about our pets as we do. No real doubt they’re in heaven.
Sorry for your loss. Another strand.