His name was Tony. I named him after the great Tony Greig. Mom and dad were against the idea of having pets at home. But my sister was in for having one and she as usual managed to get her way with our parents.
It was a magical connection that Tony and I had the moment I held him. I was his favorite . I was his friend and he was mine. He taught me a lot in life. Dogs are probably the most joyous creatures on the planet. Tony always made me feel wanted. It was a special feeling .
He taught me how not to expect anything but give all you have. Be happy even when you are sad.
No one told me dogs have 1/7th life span of a human. One day when I came back home he was gone. Only his stiff body lay on the floor. He didn't come running and jumped on me that day. I cried a lot that day. That was my first biggest loss in my life for he has truly become a part of me by then.
I haven't had a pet ever since. Perhaps I am scared of the pain that I experienced that day.
My dear son, I know you love dogs. And you should get one. And know that a dog lives it's life as though he knows he has only limited time. They are always happy.
Only if I could live everyday of my remaining life like a dog! Happy and content. Radiating joy and love.
Could have been a great new year resolution now that I think of it.
Love
Your dad