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Melody Andrews's avatar

My heart hurts for you in reading this. An often incorrect quote of Ben Franklin's comes to mind. He actually wrote, "Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards, there it enters the roots of the vines, to be changed into wine, a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy". But it's not true. Proof of God's love is dogs. It's always been dogs and the infectious happiness we receive from dogs. The joy, unconditional love, and ultimately heartbreak. We don't deserve them.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

I like the quote and I love what you say about dogs. Thank you for reading, Melody!

John McCallum's avatar

When we texted earlier today I thought of mentioning Emmylou Harris’ song “Big Black Dog” a dog who traveled with her, often appeared on stage & inspired her dog rescue project. Not exactly Ollie, but he did have his spots!! A fortunate, lucky guy who picked the right family, and got so much in return! Thanks for your Bravery & Tenacity in putting Ollie’s story out in the world, here’s to healing & recovery, john McC-

Tim Gilmore's avatar

Thank you so much for that, John. We were definitely lucky to have him! Grateful for you!

Michael Hoffmann's avatar

Dogs be that way, and then we outlive them. Which sucks except we can believe they'll be there at the end of our days, waiting.

In that vein: When Katie Awakes by Connie Mae Fowler. A memoir, set in Florida, with Kateland the dog as redeemer.

Jeannie Perez's avatar

They will be there.❤️

Michael Hoffmann's avatar

The late Pope Frances said the same thing, when asked.

Lisa Waddell's avatar

I am so sorry for your pain. If there is an afterlife, I hope he's in the bestest one, it sounds like he would appreciate it.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

Can't say I believe in that kind of afterlife, but that would be one reason I'd want to! Thank you, Lisa!

Kathryn Tilford's avatar

Making a scrapbook with favorite photos and some narrative has helped me move through the loss of a beloved companion. You've done that so beautifully. Still, it is such a very hard thing to part with a piece of one's heart.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

Thank you for sharing that! It's terribly hard. I keep finding myself having forgotten he's gone and then remembering and it's devastating.

Michael G. O'Connell's avatar

What a beautiful tribute. The loss of a family member like Ollie is always the hardest part of choosing to have a companion like him. And I am so sorry for your loss. I feel your pain and know how difficult things are right now.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

Solidarity, my friend!

Jennifer's avatar

So beautiful. How lucky you were to have each other.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

We were so very lucky to have him. That's for sure!

Ellen's avatar

So special. So sorry.

cynthia macdonald's avatar

My heart breaks for you. Truly. I know the feeling only too well. I can only hope that sharing the story has eased the pain a little bit.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

It felt necessary to do. Grateful for your kindness!

Lesser-known's avatar

Beautiful, Tim. My condolences. We have a kitten named Oliver. I hope he can live up to that name.

Tim Gilmore's avatar

Ah, Oliver the kitten! Wonderful! :-)