Time is a horribly tricky thing. It may seem simple, tick-tocking along, but it’s really a slippery river with an endless number of currents that tug at your life and twist it around.
One day you’re rushed for time, and you find a stray dog. He’s sweet and friendly, so you devote time to finding him a home.
But he’s a pitbull mix. All the rescue shelters with space say the most time they could give him would be two days before putting him down. That’s not enough time for this big-headed dog who will not stop kissing you, so you reluctantly keep him.
You name him Monty. In the blink of an eye this undernourished mutt wins you over with his curiousity, his intelligence, and his determination. He gets into everything with an honest enthusiasm you can’t help but catch, and he quickly learns all the rules of the house for the express purpose of challenging them.
In a flash he has become your dear friend, with his loyalty, tenderness, and energy carrying you through anything the world throws at you. He wins over friend after friend with his antics and, of course, his big wet kisses.
In a twinkling he has become your Buddy, your confidant, your unwavering companion in all manner of mischief and exploration. Always at your side when you need him, always waiting patiently when you’re too busy. When you have time again for him, he has kisses ready to go.
In a heartbeat he has become such a part of your life you can’t recall a time when he wasn’t curled up warm and snoring at your feet. Then you realize that heartbeat was really a decade in the making, and his eyes are getting dim, his joints ache, and he has become very, very tired… but still he kisses you.
And you can’t understand where all the time has gone.
When time finally runs out, a million moments come rushing back to you. Wonderful, goofy, sweet, crazy, touching, and precious beyond words. They remind you that time falls apart when you look backwards at it. It must be viewed from the inside, with each individual moment being cherished for as long as they last.
And when you view these wonderful moments in their totality, you realize what an indescribably lucky person you were to have such a dear friend for so long.
Sometimes friendships only last the briefest of times, sometimes they last a lifetime.
Sometimes both.
Eloquently written. So sorry for your loss, Jeff. I can relate to so many of your thoughts and insight. It’s been 10 years since we lost our German shepherd Jacks. He was a stray one of my brothers found out on a job site that turned out to be our loving companion for over 15 years. We still miss him so much.
That’s how they live on though, isn’t it? Every dog I’ve had is still with me in my thoughts or my actions. They’re amazing creatures, and I often find on the whole I tend to like them more than many people I run across.
One of the hardest things I have ever been through in my life. Time is fleeting and something we will never have enough of with family ,friends and loved ones.
Thank you, Brenda. We never know what life has in store for us tomorrow, which is what make today so amazingly important.
I have a pitbull mix on the couch right next to me right now, and I am so sad for you. Thank you for sharing your story, Jeff. And here’s to Monty and the indelible mark he left on your heart.
Many thanks, Bridget, and please pass on pets to your pit. That wonderful, sorely misunderstood breed has always had a special place in my heart.
Jeff, my heart goes out to you and Dannie. We have lost 3 in the last 3 years. It is so hard to lose those dear ones who love us so unconditionally. We have been so thankful for their presence in our lives no matter how long it may be. Furry hugs and sloppy kisses are being sent your way. Take care.
Thank you, Tammy, and I’m so sorry for your own loss. I know how much you love your furry kids, and can’t imagine losing several close together. Although for me, I’m not sure any length of time to have them is long enough.
What a great tribute to Monty, Jeff. He was such a sweet dog, and I consider myself lucky to have received some of those kisses you mention. Our thoughts are with you and Dannie and also with Willow, Zig, and Quincy. We will always have wonderful memories of Monty.
Thank you, Missy. The rest of our furry crew is still trying to figure out what’s going on, but I’ll pass on some pets. Please do the same to Mr Hurley for both of us.
I was lucky enough to know Monty dog and he was one of the best. He always greeted me by chewing on my beard. He will be missed.
I think he chewed your beard not only because he loved seeing you, but as a way to rub in my inability to grow one. Or maybe your face tastes like cheese. With that guy, it was hard to tell…
i said goodbye to one of mine this year, and i don’t know if there is anything as raw as loving and finally saying goodbye to a pet. i’m sorry for your pain, and i understand the gratefulness that comes with realizing how lucky you are to have loved and received the love of that animal. hugs to you and danni.
What a beautiful tribute to
the best friend you will ever have.
I lost my “Chloe Girl” in April and
my heart has a weeping hole in it.
God Bless you.