Time To Say Bye

Some goodbyes are harder than others. I’m currently experiencing one of my hardest. 

This summer began a rough season for my fifteen-year-old dog Beau. He’s a vibrant part of our family.  Every time he sees one of us, his tail wags like it’s Christmas morning. My hunch is dogs must be one of God’s favorite creations because they seem to have survived the fall in Eden with more love and less tainted than the rest of creation. 

In early June, Beau had a sudden mini-stroke. He was only expected to live a few days, but miraculously, has had mostly good days throughout the summer. He loves taking walks but by late July, he didn’t have as much stamina. So I bought him a wagon. That way, when his legs grew tired, he could  travel the rest of the way with his new wheels, wind in his hair and smile on his face.

Still…I knew this season was fading. One day while driving home, I was thinking about how Beau was growing weaker. “God,” I sighed, “this feels like such loss.”  

As I spoke the word “loss,” God offered another word. “Completion.”   

He caught my heart, explaining how he created Beau with purpose. His story wasn’t ending. But this chapter of it was nearing completion. 

Thankfully, that chapter had many more good times. But when the day finally came in August for us to say bye, we held to God’s word “completion.” Beau’s story wasn’t over. Just this chapter. Death never gets the last word. God promises to make all things new. Not just us, but all creation. This wasn't the end for our furry friend...but a new beginning that includes a future reunion.  

Knowing that, we did what felt impossible. We told Beau bye. But just for now.

Want more? Read Stay, a free short story of what dogs must long to hear from us.