A Lesson in Life/Death

I'd known this day was coming since the day we brought Templeton home from the local animal shelter. The day we'd have to say goodbye. Still, part of me hoped it wouldn't come so soon. Sitting here, looking into his empty cage brings tears to my eyes, as does the lack of sound coming from it. He liked to hang out with me on the couch after everyone else had gone to bed. I've managed to keep from crying until now. Now that I'm alone, it really hits me. Templeton is gone. His tiny, perfect little paws are cold, in spite of the little blanket we wrapped him in.

He'd been having trouble breathing and had lost weight recently. Part of me wonders if things might have been different if I'd taken him to the vet sooner. He wasn't young anymore, though. It must have just been his time. At least I know he had a happy life here with us. He knew he was loved. We made the time he had with us the best time of his life.

Some people don't believe animals go to Heaven. I'm not one of those people. Maybe they don't have souls in the same sense that we do, but my heart tells me I'll see my beloved pets again, someday. I refuse to believe that God would let me love something so much if death were really the end for it. In fact, I'll bet Templeton is making friends with my first pet rat, Bella, while he gets a welcoming bath from my sweet puppy, Paddington.

Rest in peace, dear Templeton. You will be missed.