“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”Anatole France
When you lose your cherished friend, you must find the way through pain toward acceptance and resolution. Needing someone to talk to about your loss doesn't mean that you are weak. It means you are human. It is basic human nature - this need to have our sorrow recognized, respected, and responded to in a manner that is healing.
Grief and Mourning
The grief that comes with the death of a pet is not just a feeling; it is a process. This mourning process is complex, involving tasks that need to be accomplished and stages to move through. Mourning involves the whole of ourselves: our emotional, physical, social, mental, and spiritual selves.
Even though grieving is not an intellectual process, knowing how it works and what it involves makes a difference in our journey through the pain toward healing.
No one else can do the grief work involved in mourning your pet, but one who hears your words and knows your suffering can lift the burden of traveling that road alone.
“Emotional healing happens not because pain is taken away, but because it is given its due.” Phyllis Kosminsky, Ph,D.
The Death Of A Pet
Little compares to the shattering pain that comes with the death of a pet. Your pet is gone but the bond between you as intense as ever. Maybe more intense. The sense of loss runs deep, the sorrow is profound, the wound feels mortal. I have been there, I know.
Until the Worst Is Over
Having someone to rely on makes a difference. Having a support system makes difference. Not being alone with sorrow makes a difference. Being heard makes a difference.
Telling another what has happened and how it feels is transforming. It is a big part of moving toward healing and peace. Giving voice to our experience gives meaning to our existence. It is what moves us through pain toward healing. So guard against any notion that it is foolish, childish, or weak to feel and express sorrow and grief. In times of trouble we turn primarily to friends and family. Find someone you can turn to in this time of need and talk about your loss with someone who understands and can sympathize.
You'll never forget your beloved pet...and you shouldn't but the sorrow and grief will turn bittersweet and eventually you will be able to think about them with a smile and joy that you were able to share part of your life with them.
If you'd like to share your stories with me, feel free. I'd love to hear them. Now, here are some of my beloved pets that have gone on and a little about each of them. They were all wonderful pets and I will never, ever forget them.
