My dearest puppy,

There are so many things I wanted to tell you, and even more things I want to tell you at this very moment. You're sitting downstairs watching the humans prepare bacon. You’re anxiously awaiting your share with wide eyes and a wagging tail. Neither one of us knew where this day would take us. You always hear the term: “It won't be today!” And every book and documentary surrounding a tragic event, the loss of someone who is considered dear to the interviewee, will somehow involve the term: “It won't happen to me.” That's someone else's family member; that's someone else's loved one. But, today was the day that I lost the one I love the most—I say that with no exaggeration.

There were times when you and your partner in crime were the only reason I found the strength to get out of bed. The two of you would tap at my door in the morning with your tiny claws. Your partner would be anxiously trotting along behind you, awaiting your scratches and morning cuddles while I watched the news. That was the best part of my day in the world where it was just you and me.

I've always taken a great deal of joy in being an intellectual as well as an introvert. I can say, candidly, without shame or hesitation, I genuinely believe most humans don’t have the capacity to understand someone of my unique insights and abilities. My insights and abilities are beyond most human comprehension and spiritual openness. The two of you have always been the ones I consider to be contemporaries, and I love you both for that. Because of your absence of human judgment, your souls are pure; vibrant shades of green; full of positivity, love and playful energy.

I love you both more than words could ever say. There was a time when I was going to give up on life, but it was as if, by magic, you came into my universe. You and your giant floppy ears and the butt that would shake when you were happy. The ears that would curl up and seem to be glued to your head when you were sad or scared. When I was struggling in life, you never once walked away from me. And both of you were so happy when I returned home from my misguided adventure. That was my time in the so-called “circus.” While this serves as a sort of continental metaphor, it would serve to describe the so-called life which passed to me as “living” at the time. The arrow would prove to be thick with questions and very negative energy. But, upon my visit home, it would always seem like it was Christmas in your four beautiful eyes—the two of you would dance around as if you were desert dwellers, receiving fresh and life giving rain for the first time in a dry season.

The love in which you two have shown me over the years has been one of the biggest blessings that has ever been bestowed upon me. What you've shown me, and the nurturing that you've needed, has given me reason to re-evaluate my own life. My empathic tendencies make it hard to know when to stop giving love, even if it’s not being returned to me. In mine as well as your weakest moments, we’ve been there for each other. I’ll forever be grateful for the lessons you taught me: be kind and keep my guard up. But most importantly, you’ve taught me to never take life too seriously. This one I've been guilty of on way too many occasions. I’ll forever be grateful for all these important lessons. Please, never forget that I love you. To the one you left behind:

Darling, I'm not sure where to begin. Today marks the start of a new chapter in life. I've told you many times I've always been here. I’ll always continue to be if it’s within my power. It’s only been a few hours since you lost your best friend, wandering the house trying to sniff him out. Right now, I'm not sure what's going through your mind. I'm worried about you. I'm worried you're scared. I'm worried you're confused. I'm worried that you might be wondering if you'll pass on, too. The answer is yes. You’ll pass on but not today. Everything that is born must die, but with the assurance of our own death comes a reminder that we must live. Not only for us but for those who can no longer live on this Earth. Our time here is special. No matter the pain, difficulty and confusion life will stop. Life will present you with many great pleasures, loves and wonderments. For example, the difficulties I had in life before you came to be part of our family made me doubt myself. I lost trust in people, but then I met you. You brought me love, wonderment and safety. That is one thing I’ve always loved most about you. Of course, you showed us your fierce desire to look after your human companions as well as the other K9 you loved. You had such fiery and intensity that no one could deny it. You’re one of the best examples of fearlessness that I've ever seen, and I love you for it. Now, I'll try and put his absence in terms which you can understand. Today, our brave boy with those giant claws lost his valiant fight tonight. He fought as hard as he did for his family and, above all, for you. Please be aware that he loved you enough to stay strong for you for a while. I’m not too humble to know I can take this as a lesson in the strength of character, which Phoenix possessed, and we'll carry on with him to the next phase of this mysterious life. As a child, I was taught that life goes on. I was also taught that animals we're put on this Earth to serve man. But, I disagree. I believe that animals, like people, were created with an individual purpose. I believe every soul that encounters me does so to better my life as well their own life. I’m very aware that the last year was very difficult for our best friend. I'm also aware that, wherever he may be right now, he's not in pain anymore. I hope his soul was shed from his body, which was hurting him. The one I love will be able to move on. In time, darling, you'll be able to move on with your life as well. You’ll never forget him by any means, knowing he made you a better and much wiser soul that’ll grow stronger with time. Please, remember that our best friend is still with us like a full moon in a dark forest. His soul provides comfort and light so we can navigate life's journey.

I love you, both.