Legacy for Marley Terrier

When a pal passes, it can be so easy to say a few words of condolence and move on. For me, each pal leaves a piece of themselves within me for safekeeping.  I can not easily move on as I was.  I become forever changed by the grace of having known them.  The honor of this duty is a solemn one for me.  Yet, I know it is important to carry on.

 

I don’t know if I am barking into the vast wilderness, unheard.

 

I don’t know how to make a difference except by being true to myself.

 

I do know it is important to stop and grieve, to remember and to be thankful for having met.

 

I do know that, for me, the only way forward through grief is a formula of

 

time + action.

Time will settle itself.

Action I can accomplish by:

Vowing to always be gentle, kind, encouraging and tireless in my efforts to raise money for animal related charities.

Laughing when I can, giving a hug when it is needed and sitting quietly beside those that need silent support.

Pledging to keep Marley’s legacy alive by:

1. accepting the duty to continue in his pawprints, not as he would, but as I can;
2. be guided by the vastness of his compassion and generosity of legacy;
3. guide myself, and hopefully others, in a way forward by shining a light into the darkness of the reality of animals in need.

I can only do what I can do.  I comfort myself with the hope that it will be enough – even for just one.

 Until we meet again and thank you, Marley.