A PRAYER FOR MY DOG SPIRIT My sweet companion, you have given me joy for almost fifteen years, and now it's time for you to leave your worries and cares. You have spent your long life looking out for me, protecting me from strangers, and keeping a silent vigil throughout my home. You only cried out when the cause was there. You were with me when good news came my way, rejoicing in my happiness. You were there in my sorrow, nuzzling my hand or kissing my cheek, to remind me of your love and concern. On wintry mornings, we shared many cups of tea; when I wasn't looking, you would take a sip, and I only found out about it when you came to get a cuddle from me, and I felt your wet whiskers. In the spring, you padded through puddles as I hollered at you to stay away from them. You loved to get your feet wet. And when I laid down for rest, you laid down with me, settling in at my feet, so close we had to touch, or you would rest against my tummy, and snuggle as close as you possibly could. My precious little bundle of orneriness, I love you so much, yet now I have to let you go to your next life. You have served your master better than you know. You have served your purpose. Go now to God, sweet spirit, and live a beautiful life with Him, for He is the one who gave you to me all those years ago. May all the best your new life has to offer be yours. Go swiftly, softly, gently, and comfortably. Gentle soul, my beloved friend, you have my permission to leave my life, but you will never leave my heart. Your Mama Linda Robertson October 10, 1998