Sunday, January 20, 2008

Missy

In the wee hours of the morning, a friend of mine received a phone call from the pet hospital where her precious girl had been for a week receiving blood transfusions and other treatments in an attempt to save her very sick body.

The call from the hospital was desperate and suggested Missy might not make it through the night.

My friend, while rushing to the hospital, called me to help her remain somewhat calm as she drove. And I actually remained calm. Funny how you can do that.

I talked to her about everything and nothing. At a couple of points, she asked if I thought there was a place in heaven for dogs. I changed the subject. I had to. When I heard her voice wavering... well, it can't be safe to drive with blurred vision. I talked about stupid, silly stuff. I tried to make her laugh. She probably hated me for it, but I had to try.

When she finally reached the hospital and found her boyfriend there waiting for her, I got off the phone. She would be okay.

That's when my calm surrendered. I never got the opportunity to meet Missy (she was born in Cali after I left). Even still, there were tears for my friend and tears for thoughts of 'what if.'
My thoughts went wild. What if it were me? What if it were Beau at the hospital? What if I had to see his food bowl and know... What would I do with his collars?

I could not imagine losing Beau. I have no idea how I could possibly move forward having experienced life with such a blessing and then being forced to live my life without him.

It was still dark outside and Beau was sleeping, but I had to wake him. He groaned in frustration and stretched his tiny legs as I hugged on him and sobbed at the very thought of a day when I might not be able to do such a thing.

About an hour later, Missy lost her fight and passed away in my friend's arms. She was certainly one loved dog and provided a lot of happiness, never asking for a thing in return.

And yeah, I think maybe there might be a place in heaven for dogs.