I write this post with a very heavy heart.
One of our furry family members was put to sleep today. sniff sniff*
(If you are a pet lover, you know the pain we are all going through.)
Buddy was a 14-year-old purebred Maltese. He was my sister's family pet. Actually, he was more than a dog; he was a family member. He was welcomed and treated as one of us. He completed my sister's family, making it a perfect family of four.
He was the ideal companion. He never ran off or misbehaved. He had those playful moments, like tearing apart toilet paper like it was no one's business. Or when he was dunking his head inside a fishbowl, trying to play with the tiny aquatic creature. He was curious, not mischievous. ☺
No one could walk by him without complimenting his pristine appearance and adorable personality. Buddy's fur was whiter than snow, and his coat was always perfectly groomed. He was well-trained and well-mannered. He was potty trained and went where he was designated to go. He had this unique and quiet bark while playing a silly game, signaling for your affection. He was so smart that sometimes you wondered if he was training you versus the other way around. ☺
When you visited their house, Buddy greeted you at the window above the driveway. He was always perched on top of the couch like he was the neighborhood watch, scouting out to see who you were and to approve of your presence.
Buddy was pretty famous, too. Several years back, he won one of Washingtonian magazine's Cutest Dog of the Year contests. You can find him in a photo like he was posing for a contest he knew he was going to win.
My favorite moments were when we put our noses near Buddy's; he would respond by lightly grazing his nose towards you to see if he recognized your scent. Once he approves, he will validate you by giving you a few kisses. He didn't do this for everyone, tho. You were one of the lucky ones if he chose you.
He was fondly known as Bud, Budster, Bubba, or Buddy. Everyone loved him dearly, and that's why it's so difficult today. We spent time with Buddy yesterday and reminisced about how perfect he was and our cherished memories of him.
My husband said a prayer for Buddy and his family that I want to extend to you if you're also going through a rough time in your life.
Below is the text my husband sent in our family group chat.
I feel the pain of losing a family pet and know it can be incredibly difficult, as Buddy was an important member of our family.
Here's a comforting Bible verse and a prayer for the family during this challenging time:
Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Heavenly Father, We come before you today with heavy hearts as my sister-in-law's family prepares to say goodbye to their beloved Buddy. In their time of sorrow, we ask for Your comfort and peace to surround them. May they feel Your presence more closely than ever, knowing that You are near to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. Help them to remember the joy and love Buddy brought into their lives and to cherish those memories as precious gifts. Grant them strength in the days ahead and fill their home with love and peace. In your mercy, ease their pain and guide them through this season of grief. In Jesus' name, Amen.
I'm going to miss you so much, Buddy. You will always hold a very special place in our hearts.
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