by Frank Wilder
Today I lost my best friend. For 17 yrs. we had a bond which only friends know and understand. Right from the day we found each other, we've been there for the other, no matter what thru thick and thin. He saw both my bad side and my good side. He saw me thru 3 marriages and never said a word. When I was down financially, he was there for me. When I was financially healthy, he never asked for anything, but shared in my prosperity. He never asked for anything at all, yet he always had everything he needed or wanted.
I recall so many moments which we shared. Mostly, I recall our talks, and mostly he'd just listen. He knew all my secrets, both good and bad, and he never judged me. So many nights in winter we'd be in front of the fireplace talking or relaxing to the music I'd play. Many times in the summer I'm sure he wondered why I would sit there looking into the stars and not saying much. But he never judged me. He would give that questioning look he so often gave me.
These last three yrs. I know were getting harder for him, and somehow I knew this day would come. Still, it came much sooner than I had hoped. I was with him to the end, as he had always been there for me. Never asking for anything in return.
But, as I reflect on the day and the many yrs. we've spent together, I guess he did ask something after all. He asked for the friendship we've shared, with all the good and bad that comes with it.
For you see my new found friends, my best friend was a dog. Not just any dog, but my companion, confidant and at times protector.
My dream, would be to be remembered, as I remember him. If even by just one person. And, how much could we learn by having a friend such as this.