Somewhere over the Rainbow Bridge: A Tribute to Bella
My Dearest Bella,
I’m truly grateful for the years we’ve had together and for the love you’ve given me. I didn’t know much about pit bulls at first, but very quickly learned what an incredible family member you all are to a family who appreciates you. You’re not at all what I was told you would be. You’re gentle, kind, social, and so meek while still having so much personality. You’re perfect. From the moment I saw you shivering in that kennel corner, all I’ve wanted to do was comfort you and give you love. When you laid your head on my legs and looked up at me with the most beautiful brown eyes I’d ever seen, and just groaned like you always do, I melted.
Fostering seemed like the only option at first since our family was already so big, but getting to know you during that time, we could tell you were part of our fur-ever family. Making the decision to adopt you is something I’m still grateful for to this very day. And though I never understood how someone could have abused such a gentle creature, I hope the life you’ve known these recent years have made up for any pain you experienced before we met. All the hugs, belly rubs, cuddling and stinky kisses you’ve given have meant so much to me and I hope they comforted you from that trauma. I’m just so sad to lose you…. I love you, little Tinky… So much.
I know you know this because I can feel how you moan and groan out of comfort and safety. I think I’ll miss most of all the sounds you make while you sleep. They always sounded like you were purring and it would remind me that I had done something good in this world. Giving you a chance to live your full life was so rewarding and it’s been a privilege to care for and comfort you. You’re my stinky little princess. And as I write this and ugly cry while you lose your battle to cancer, you still just turn your head look at me with those eyes that touch my soul. You make me feel calm instantly and I get emotional when I see how much you love me in return. Thank you for trusting me and letting me be your daddy. You are one of the hardest losses of my life, and I would do anything to have given you longer, more comfortable time. I’m so sorry that I couldn’t, honey.
Life is precious. In the end, people feel so much regret and guilt about wasted or under appreciated time. But we’ve loved each other so strongly all this time that I don’t mourn the time you didn’t get to live, I mourn the loss of one of my very closest friends. You will be remembered and honored here.
Please give my love to Daisy, Dixie, Bradley and Teddy and rest comfortably knowing that I will be with you all again one day. Please protect Grandma Light the way you’ve protected me and enjoy your new life on the other side of the rainbow bridge.