We've had nearly nine wonderful, love filled years together. Every day I wake to your face near mine. The smell of your breath makes takes my mind back to when you were a puppy. The feel of your fur next to me is like a comfortable blanket on a cold winter night. How sad we only have these short years together. Why does God not give us equal lifetimes? It seems so unfair. When you were young you were filled with boundless energy. Always ready for a days work with me. Now, you're ready mentally, but get physically tired so quickly. The sounds of your groans as you lie down to rest remind me of an old ship at sea, wavering back and forth on the crest of a wave. I feel your life energy draining away, ebbing slowly into oblivion. When you sleep you're so still. My friend, it will be so hard to let go when the time comes. How shall I deal with this? I know it is coming soon, and I can't bear the pain. I do not want to lose you. I love you with every fiber of my being. I know in my heart that I will be strong for you on that day when I must make the decision to be merciful. The thought of holding your head in my hands and watching the life drain quickly from you is a nightmare that has been haunting me. The thought of waking to a new day without you is so foreign to me. I know you've seen me cry recently as the thoughts of your inevitable demise surround me. Your beautiful eyes gazing upon my grief, caring not at all for yourself, but beaming utter love for your master. I have not been worthy of your unconditional love. It is my fervent wish that after we have passed on that our ashes be mixed in the same urn so that we can be returned to the earth, together forever. My Dearest Friend, I hope you'll wait for me at the bridge, so that our spirits may cross together as one.