Jul 09 2002
Buddy’s birthday
20 years ago today, I fell in love.
It was the best kind of love, since it was both unexpected and profound. And it still endures.
On this day, 20 years ago, I happened to be visiting my friend Alice when her cat gave birth. Though I knew her cat was expecting kittens, I had never thought about adopting one of them. But for some reason, which I still can’t explain, it was love at first sight when Buddy made his first appearance. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen a newborn kitten, but they look very strange indeed, besides being covered with blood and goo, as any newborn animal is. Despite these aesthetic drawbacks, I fell in love with Buddy and never looked back.
Through the next 18 years, he was my constant companion and friend. We grew up together, and he was always there for me. As my father said of his beloved dog Jesse, “We knew each other for 14 years, and he never thought I was wrong.”
Three months before his 18th birthday, Buddy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. His strong heart wouldn’t give up, though, so we had to get our vet to come to the apartment and release him from his pain. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done. I realized that I had been there for his first breath and his last, and that was a privilege. I am very lucky to have had such a friend for so long. So on this day, I am especially thankful that he came into my life, and that we had such a wonderful journey together.
4 Responses to “Buddy’s birthday”
I’ve felt the same pain in being there for a few animal companions last breaths. Some people don’t have it in them to stay while their animal is being put down, but how could you be any place else? Emotional pain, yes, but at least a friend won’t die alone.
Nice of you to remember Buddy in this way, and on this day.
*hugs*
We are so lucky to have these souls in our life. Buddy was lucky to have you there from beginning to end, and you to have Buddy. I couldn’t imagine my life without Entropy and my sis’s babies.
Thinking of you today. *hugs again*
I always get so sad whenever you mention Buddy. It’s almost like I want to ignore it so that I don’t have to think about the pain I’ll feel when NOTHING EVER HAPPENS to Cheeto.
I’m sorry, today must be pretty painful. 🙁
Awww … you have succeeded in breaking down Evil Kelly’s barrier and I’m all misty. Like Candi, I just can’t even “go there” (to use one of the expressions I loathe most) with Jazz and Ocho.
Sorry – this must be a tough day for you. It sounds like you lost a wonderful Buddy.
I’m sending positive thoughts your way!