Last week we said a painful goodbye to our dear friend, our beautiful Golden Retriever. Paddy was truly the best. She taught us so many things in the years she was with us — much more than 5, but here are the Top 5:
1. You’re never too old to have fun:
Stay in the moment. . .have a ball. Inspire the people around you with your joy. You couldn’t help but smile when she’d leap to catch a ball. Every day, every catch brought her joy. Find what brings you joy and do it.
2. Move every day: Start your day with a good stretch. . .a scratch behind the ears. Go outside if you’re able. Let the sun warm you. Do whatever activities you enjoy. . .biking, skiing, golfing, walking — maybe even make a snow angel. . .and after you’ve moved, never underestimate the value of an afternoon nap.
3.Be kind. I’ll say it again. Be kind. . .wag your tail and let your smile reach your eyes. Let the people you love know it. Show compassion and whenever possible; offer comfort.
4. Never turn down an offer to ride in a car. . .especially a ride with no particular destination. . .and if you can’t hang your head out the window, at least take in the sights and sounds around you. Children easily and routinely get excited about little things. As adults we feel it has to be a Big.Deal. to qualify for our excitement. A dog jumps and circles around when it finds out it’s going for a ride in the car — doesn’t matter where it’s going. Though where Paddy was concerned, if that car pulled up at the Dairy Queen, well . . . there was a whole lot more tail waggin’ going on. Get excited about life.
5. Don’t be afraid to look silly. Some of the best times of your life may come when you let your guard down, not caring how you look. Create less ‘wish I had’ moments and more ‘glad I did’ ones. Worry less about what people think of you.
Two days after Paddy left this world, we saw a rainbow coming through a gorgeous blue sky. I like to think this was her saying she made it to heaven and joined some familiar faces — family, friends and our other pets (some of whom were her former roommates). Godspeed ♥.
Rosalie Best says
As one of Paddy’s caregivers throughout a number of years, this tribute is EXACTLY perfect as Paddy lived her life in just this way. They do “cross the bridge” into nonphysical and they surly do hook back up with those nonphysical Energies whom they know and love, as they do us who are still here in the flesh. The rainbow against a clear blue sky is an absolute validation of her Strong and Loving Presence which she projects to us here each time we feel a “pang” or a “heaviness” in our hearts. This is another sign of her Love for us and instead of interpreting these feelings as feelings of grief, we need to remind ourselves these are volumes of Love which abide in our hearts and when we recognize this the feelings turn to overwhelming Joy. I have handled and Loved many dogs in this life, but Paddy will be one that is with me for Eternity…I’m a Lucky Dog! God Bless ALL the Friends of Paddy!
Bernie says
Amazing Rosalie — thank you! Paddy was always in the best of care when you looked after her and the notes you left re: her activities were not only informative, but usually made us laugh as well. You’re a true professional with a good, kind heart. God bless you for all you did for our Paddy.
Jeanette Bach says
What a beautiful way to remember Paddy! I know she had a wonderful life here on earth because of her loving family.
Bernie says
Thank you so much Jeannette for your kind words. They are truly appreciated.