Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Sad Goodbye


Chopin c. 1994
named for Kate Chopin, writer


Last night, Jon and I made the very difficult decision to say goodbye to our cat of nearly 18 years, Chopin (aka, "shope-py", cookie puss, shopes and lately "old girl"). She was a treasured member of our family, a source of much joy and some hair-pulling-out. She was my kid's childhood pet. She was a cat who knew how to have a good time.

Chopin's been rocky for a year or so now and, I wonder if she wasn't waiting for Dan to be happily settled in college before she decided to let go. So we did. We all let go in a very humane way. I held her the whole time. All day today I see her everywhere. It's gonna be lonely here without her. We are at peace with our decision though, we did right by her to let her go.

To all the pets out there, I say thank you.

Thanks for reading this today. It feels good to write a little eulogy to the Old Girl.

13 comments:

Rebecca said...

Oh, that is sad.
Wishing you fond memories.

inki said...

Sending a hug your way..it is hard to lose those little furry friends.

Joanne said...

oh my heart goes out to you Diana. We had to face the same tough decision with our golden earlier this year - so I clearly understand the loneliness and heartbreak. Hugs...I will be thinking of you guys.

Laurie said...

I wish you all, including Chopin's spirit, peace.

We have had to say goodbye to several elderly felines lately, and face a few more goodbyes in a few years (hopefully that long). I'm sure that you gave her a wonderful life. Grieve well.

Dale Anne Potter said...

{{{{{HUGS}}}}} to you & your family. We have enjoyed reading Rainbow Bridge whenever we've had to deal with a pet loss.

Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....Author unknown..

Trish said...

I'm so sorry:(

Joan Phillips said...

Hi Diana,
Its Joan from CCA. I have been reading your blog and I am so sorry to hear about your cat. They certainly become a part of the family.

Lisa Bebi said...

hi diane: i thought i would pop in here and say i just read your book "journal spilling" and really liked it. i love our humor. very refreshing.

i was wondering if you would email me so i can talk to you about it.
thanks,
lisa bebi
i did not see an email address for you anywhere.

lisabebiart@aol.com

Barb Smith said...

My heart aches for you. As I write this, my wonderful Simon (Siamese) is laying my my side, hands together as in prayer, and I can't imagine life without him in it. Oh yes, my heart definitely aches for you. *Hugs*
Peace & Love,
~Barb~
Craft Therapy

Zoe, ontheroad said...

Sorry to hear the sad news.

Sandra L. said...

I am so sorry, Diana. I have been in that difficult position. Do you know about the Rainbow Bridge? If not, Google it. It may help. God bless.

Anonymous said...

I am sorry for your deep loss. I know how it feels as I have gone thru this at least several x. You will alwyas have your precious memories of Chopin and that unconditional love which will one day turn your grief and pain into peace. Linda

yourauntkaren said...

She was such a sweetie! I understand seeing her in every corner. Chopin had a wonderful life with you.

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30925660&id=1164962519

Love you guys!