March 25, 2011

This most inconsolable of sorrows


Bounce at the cabin, looking for the bobcat. August 2009.

She's gone. My good girl, best, dearest, friendliest, happiest, smartest, kindest. She had the biggest and most joyful personality. All heart. All good.

Found out last fall that she would not, in fact, live forever, but I kept hoping. It's impossible that she's gone. Dear, brave, noble to the end.

Went to the shelter later, looked at the run where I first saw her 13 years ago. Everyone who knew her, loved her.

I can't believe she's gone.

I hope to heaven Julie Zickefoose can forgive me for repeating this, since it comes from a post honoring the memory of a human loved one, but I'll say it anyway: "Death is undone by love." I love you, Bounce.

23 comments:

PBurns said...

Nothing loved is ever lost.

Behind this sad death there was a very good life and a very happy dog.

I cannot remember all the names of the people at my last job, but when I am old, and have lost my mind, I will still remember every dog, and how they breathed, and how they worked, and how they loved with every fiber of their body. Sweet dreams Bounce. As long as she is alive, you will be immortal.

georgia little pea said...

I'm so sorry to read about Bounce. It sounds like she found a good home with you and was much loved. You were both lucky. Love and peace.

YesBiscuit! said...

I'm sorry for your loss Luisa. I think you picked a perfect photo for this post.

Janice in GA said...

I have an old man dog (he's 14) named Bouncer that I'm holding onto as long as I can.

No matter how long we have them, it's never long enough. I grieve for your loss.

EmilyS said...

I am so sorry Luisa... hugs to you and yours...

Caveat said...

Sorry to hear the news, Luisa.

Unknown said...

My heartfelt condolences, Luisa.

Luisa said...

Guys, thank you so much. I feel like I've been shot with a cannonball, such a huge empty space in my heart right now. She was so special. No dog was ever so enthusiastic about life, or wagged her tail more, or was so rightfully confident that her charm and diplomacy could win over every living thing. She really was just perfect, and I loved her so much. Thanks again -

themacinator said...

wow, i have shivers. as you said in your tweet- safe journey. i can't think of anything harder than the lost of a faithful bull.

hang in there luisa.

Luisa said...

They are the best, aren't they? Thank you and give Mac a hug for me -

Anonymous said...

All of your sadness right now, all of the empty feelings are loss of the happiness and the fullness and love that she felt every day with you.

Your inconsolable sorrow now is all in proportion to the immeasurable joy she had in her life with you.

I'm just a creepy anonymous internet person, but even I can tell you loved her dearly.

sluj said...

I'm so sorry to read this. It's the hardest part of sharing your life with a dog.

Unknown said...

I was afraid to read this blog and finally summed up the courage...we are so sorry to hear of your loss of your beloved best friend.

Bounce is up in heaven with our Shiro, and together, they are getting into mischief.....

and knowing you have a huge hole in your heart for Bounce is filled up with the love that Bounce left behind.....

Janeen said...

Truly Good Dogs are such an integral part of our lives. They take a piece of us when they go.

Godspeed Bounce.

Debra said...

I am sorry. I loved looking at her pictures as she reminded me of my own dear, dear girl who is gone, but will never be forgotten. Take care.

Erica Houck-Young, CTC said...

It never gets easier, does it. Kind thoughts go to you and yours while you travel across that desperately wide sea of grief.

Pibble XO's,
Erica

Anonymous said...

I'm so very sorry for the loss of your amazing Bounce. She sounds like the best pit bull ever, living in a compassionate and knowledgeable home with a dedicated owner, full of love. You were both very lucky to have eachother and she will never be forgotten.
Ailsa

Anonymous said...

3 Months ago today I lost my beloved dog, Sam. She was with me for more than 15 years. She was the light of my life. I am only now recovering.

Losing her was without question the hardest thing I ever had to deal with in my life, and I am not young.

My Advice: Focus on your memories and the good times. Go ahead and morn. Work your way through it; do not attempt to suppress the sorrow but do not wallow in it.

In time it will get better. Know that other understand.

My heart goes out to you.

Laura Carson said...

A little late, but wanted to say that I'm so sorry, Luisa. You're in my thoughts.

Christine said...

So, so late in seeing this post. My heart breaks for you. I always find it perplexing how a being with so much heart has so little time in this world. No doubt Bounce shared a wonderful life with you. Big hugs sent your way.

Social Mange said...

I'm so sorry, Luisa. I hope you have lots of lovely pictures and memories to keep Bounce alive in your heart.

naganpets said...

I'm sorry.It's not easy to lost someone.I wrote u some poem:
Tie the strings to my life, my Lord,
Then I am ready to go!
Just a look at the horses --
Rapid! That will do!

Put me in on the firmest side,
So I shall never fall;
For we must ride to the Judgment,
And it's partly down hill.

But never I mind the bridges,
And never I mind the sea;
Held fast in everlasting race
By my own choice and thee.

Good-by to the life I used to live,
And the world I used to know;
And kiss the hills for me, just once;
Now I am ready to go!
farewell Bounce.I'll be missing you always.

Luisa said...

Emily Dickinson: poet - and spammer ;~)