A few weeks ago, I lost a best friend and family member; however, I know there are many people who may dismiss the death of a pet, reasoning, "Oh, it's only a dog." They have obviously never met Wilson.
A few years ago, a young girl (me), pining for a fluffy companion of her own, used her newly-acquired Powerpoint skills to create a presentation titled, "Ten Reasons We Need a Dog." After a good laugh and some reasoning of their own, my parents gave in, and we brought Wilson into our home. I absolutely adored my little black miniature schnauzer puppy, spending hours teaching and playing with him. He quickly became a part of our family, and his smart, loving personality endeared him to everyone he met. Whether we were hiking by our favorite creek or reading in the grass together, Wilson was simply content to be by my side, and often, when I was upset about something and needed a shoulder to cry on, Willy would comfort me, a look of love and concern in his intelligent eyes.
I have been filled with indescribable anger and sadness at Wilson's passing, feeling that no one can possibly understand what a void it has left in my life. I question daily why my young, seemingly healthy dog had to leave me, and I see shadows of him everywhere. It has taken quite a bit of faith in Heavenly Father's plan for my buddy and for me.
The other day my sister sent us a magnet with the saying:
Good dogs are with us for a little while to teach us how to love like it's our job... because it is.
I find this quote spot on because if there's one thing Wilson knew how to do, it was to love. Think of how amazing the world would be if we humans took upon ourselves the task of unconditionally loving and accepting one another.
Our job in this world is LOVE.
Wilson, thank you for teaching me this.
It's a privilege to love you and be loved by you.
Wilson's last birthday
P.S. Meet Brinkley. He becomes a part of our family this week.
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