"It's just so sad that she probably only has a couple years left...".
First of all, that's rude. Second of all, as much as I hate to admit it, that's true. So here is a letter of what I wish I could convey to my beloved pup in the twilight of her life.
Dear Layla,
Sometimes, people don't know what they've got until it is gone. We take time and experiences for granted. We are lazy and selfish. We think of ourselves first and have a habit of saying "not today..." as if there are unlimited tomorrows. The truth is, however, nothing is unlimited. Everything ends. If we are very lucky, we come to realize this fact and get the chance to live accordingly. To run after things that excite us, to spend time snuggled up to the ones we love, to explore the world around us, and to treat every day as a new adventure. You however, my sweet friend, have always lived this way. The first time I picked you up, I was 20 years old and you were the size of a football. I had no intention of getting a dog when I happened upon you but the moment you looked into my eyes, I knew you were something special. I expected to love you. What I didn't expect, was to learn from you. You taught me to be selfless- to put the needs of another creature before my own. You taught me to be responsible- to make decisions based on the impact they would have on other's instead of just myself. You showed me how to love unconditionally. You encouraged me to be silly- to roll around on the floor with you and laugh. You taught me to ignore the mud and explore the world around me. Your curiosity took us on so many adventures. You taught me to enjoy the little things in life- driving with the windows down, laying in the sun, eating an ice cream cone on a warm day. You taught me that having a pristine home isn't the most important thing- i'd rather have a couch with a few scratches and a bed with a few grey hairs than deny you some snuggles and comfort. You taught me to be compassionate. I so appreciate the way you come to my side whenever i'm upset. You taught me to be gentle and choose my tone wisely because it says more than my words ever do. I became an adult with you. I became a better person because of you. You didn't have to do anything but be exactly what you are to impact my life in such a profound way. I know that you will leave me someday and I wish I could use my words to tell you just how much you've meant to me but I can't. So instead, i'll take you on an extra long walk today. I'll sit on the floor with you and throw that toy 45 times in a row to make you happy. I'll sneak you an extra treat. I'll try not to take a single moment for granted. And when your time comes and you need someone to sit beside you, I will not leave your side, just as you have never left mine.
Love always,
Your Human, Erin
