MartyT

My dear Linda, I'm deeply sorry to learn of the sudden, unexpected death of your beloved Brian, but I hope it brings you some small measure of comfort to know that you've found your way to a safe and comforting place, where you are among so many compassionate and understanding friends. We will not let you travel this most difficult journey alone.

Wonderful news, Dee Gee

Bless your precious heart, Lucia. I cannot think of a nicer gift than this ~ and what a lovely way to honor the memory of your darling Ben

Kay, dear, I'm so sorry we missed your birthday, but I hope it comforts you to know that we celebrate the gift of you every day of the year. (Yes, you are that important to us)

Hey Paul! How wonderful to "see" you here again! You are missed ~ along with your wisdom and your wit God bless you, too

Lovely, Kath ~ thank you

Unfortunately, we have become experts and I feel it is up to us to teach those that just don't know what to say. I like that statement, Kath ~ a lot!

Beautifully done, Jrm, and you and Duke have all our love and blessings on your anniversary day.

Amen, Evelyn, and thank you for saying that!

Oh my, yes! You may find this article helpful: I Don't Care How Long It's Been - Can We Talk about My Loved One?

Good for you, Tom. This is what Viktor Frankl describes in his now famous book Man's Search for Meaning. In his experience as a concentration camp prisoner during World War II, Frankl concludes that a person's reactions are not solely the result of the conditions of his life, but also from the freedom of choice he always has, even in the face of severe suffering. This is not easy, by any means, but it is an attitude that will guide you safely through this journey of grief.

Good for you, Kathy! And I'm glad you feel Jon's approval and support.

Oh my dear Dot, I'm so sorry to learn about your precious best friend, Bernard. I have a feeling I know exactly what he looked like, since my own father had a collie-St. Bernard named Moose that was the love of his life, and she was beautiful. She, too, was just about the cutest puppy ever. The bond between them was exactly the way you describe the bond you have with your beloved Bernard, and I can only imagine how your heart is breaking now. Please know that you're among kindred spirits here, and no one in this forum will ever wonder or question why you're feeling as you are. We've all been where you are now, and we know how much it hurts. Your post got me thinking again about my dad -- we just passed his death-date anniversary, and although he died many years ago, I still miss him terribly -- I thought you might want to read something I wrote several years about him and his Moose, here: Memorializing a Cherished Pet

It is a tradition throughout the world that animals are blessed on (or near) October 4th, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. Here you'll find a listing for Blessing of the Animals ceremonies throughout the United States: Pet Blessings 2009. This is the prayer that is usually offered: Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen. If you wish to do so, you might ask for a blessing and honor the memory of your deceased animal companion by lighting a candle online, here: Light a Candle. You'll also find a place to honor your companion or ask for a blessing here: Prayer Wall for Animals

Oh Laurie, I love that story! You might appreciate these other threads: Could This Be a Sign? I Swear I Could Smell Him See also Strange Thing Happened

Dear Tom and Dena, I'm so sorry to learn of the loss of your beloved Molly ~ and what a beautiful girl she is! It is evident from the details of your story what loving pet parents you are, and I can't imagine how empty your home must feel without the physical presence of Molly to fill it. Obviously she was an essential part of your daily lives. It's good to know that you'll be attending the Pet Loss Support Group at HOV this morning ~ I know that there you will be embraced with compassion, understanding and love, and I hope you will continue to feel that here as well.

Oh Ian, your description of your relationship with your beloved Bozzy is priceless. I'm so sorry for your loss, and I can only imagine how devastating this is for you and your wife Debbie. Please know that you have our deepest sympathy ~ and yes, we certainly do understand

A shoulder to write on -- oh, Shelley, I love that! That should be our slogan

Dear One, I'm so sorry to learn that you've been hit with such devastating news about your dad, especially now, in the wake of your mother's death. Please know that, whatever lies ahead for you, we are here for you ~ and when you feel ready to do so, I hope you'll explore some of the resources listed on our Care Giving page . . .

Cubby, dear, I'm so sorry about your aunt -- enough already! I think you'd be wise to follow your husband's advice, and see your doctor sooner rather than later. If you don't take good care of you, Cubby, who will?

Kathy, dear, I'm so glad you have a Maddy in your life. You deserve that, and so much more . . .

We'll all be right there with you on Saturday, Paula . . .

Oh Dee Gee ~ I'm so happy for you, both because you went ahead and pursued this, and because now it will be done the way it should have been done in the first place. Hooray for you! Your GH family is proud of you!

Ted, dear ~ have you seen this post? My Mom's Passing See also I Think It's Time But Not Sure

Debbie, dear, I'm so sorry to learn of the sudden, unexpected death of your brother ~ and of the news that your uncle has died as well. That is a double blow. Please accept our deepest sympathy, and know that you are being held in gentle thought and prayer. I know that this forum sometimes does not receive the attention that some of our other forums do, but I hope you still can feel our collective arms around you. You are not alone on this difficult journey, and I hope that you will feel welcome here. Please share the details of your stories of loss with us, and tell us what was special about your brother and your uncle. Wishing you peace and healing, Marty T