by Stephanie Laland
So many people concentrate on the last part of their beloved animals lives, when they die. They think
about the time when their animal was hurt or sick and worry about how much pain they were in. My cat,
Pie, is getting on in years now and I feel he has been saying to me (without words, of course) how
grateful he has been for the wonderful life I provided for him. I hope this poem captures what I believe
are the true feelings most well-cared for animal companions feel, after they leave their bodies.
How I am Right Now
I know that you miss me
At times you are sad
You think you should have done more
As a Mom or a Dad
But Ive something to tell you
So you wont feel so bad
It was the best life
I could ever have had.
Now that Im in heaven
I dont feel the pain
Of all of the problems
That make life a strain
I just have to thank you
That the memories are glad
For you gave me the best life
I could ever have had.
The times that were painful
Are just lessons learned
Ive forgotten the sad times
With the freedom Ive earned
Just know in your heart now
With faith iron-clad
That you gave me the best life
I could ever have had.
It is not in the nature of an animal to judge us as harshly, as we judge ourselves. Unconditional love
does not end at the grave.
If you would like to share a story about your beloved animal please send it to me and I may be able to
include it in my next book about animals.
Stephanie Laland, author of
Peaceful Kingdom: Random Acts of Kindness by Animals and Animal A
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