My dog died today. There’s not a person in my world who can’t relate with me on some level. Why so much pain? My little dog wasn’t human, so what’s the deal? Why am I feeling such loss? The simple answer is grief. The Bible speaks often and significantly to the grief we all experience. Psalm 34:18 says “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 147:3 continues “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” We tend to only apply these, and others verses, when there is a huge, life altering event like the loss of family member or some special person. But I must admit, those verses comfort me, today.
I suppose there are many reasons why people love their dogs (or pets) so much. My little dog named Jackson was loyal, affectionate, and he loved me and my family without judgement. I could have the worst day and I would come home to a wagging tail of comfort. I want to be like him where people see me as a tender, loving, non-judgmental, person who will be there for them on their worst day.
This will be incredibly difficult, and it’s completely okay to feel sad during this time. So, I’m sad. I miss my buddy. I’ll take some time to grieve. I will remember the happy times and celebrate the memories.