Dog and Hummingbird

[Igneouss]

Dog and Hummingbird

Many years ago on a pretty spring morning I caught a hummingbird in my hands. I was up in the Okanogan on the Salish reservation visiting a friend. Finding his place involved directions like ‘turn right when you pass the field with the spotted horse.’ We found it without trouble. I think I had gone back to the cabin to grab a drink. Alone on that beautiful and long past morning I was suddenly joined by a hummingbird. I held out my hand and the bird simply landed there. It looked at me and chittered. It showed no sign of fear, or of leaving. I closed my hands gently around the creature and headed back to the group of elders.

I was a stranger to most but when I walked up holding my closed hands in front of me, everyone turned to look. I simply opened my hands. The iridescent bird flew once around the rough circle of the group, chittering away and flew off into the sunlight.

Last Friday we had to put the dog down. It was time. He was in constant pain. How do you measure these things? 11 years is a good life for a big dog. His person sat on the floor stroking his head and ears. He fell gently to sleep with his head in her lap. A minute or two later his heart stopped. It was peaceful. It was the most I have cried in years.

[jella]

Beautiful story on both accounts Igneouss, I'm coming to terms with my 14yr old lab he has rough days but my aspirin dosage perks him up enough for the happy face still has a great appitite and still has a good roll in the grass so I'm in denial I guess. Time for a few more hugs ♥

[Igneouss]

I'll be spending some time in the Temple this year.

[Mojojita]

Although now they are painful, in time, you will be glad for the things that remind you of dog. My wish for you is that each time you see a hummingbird, you will smile with the memory of the love of a faithful friend.

[OregonRed]

((((Igneouss)))) Having made two trips to the temple for my furry kids, I am so very sorry for your loss. Be grateful that you had the love of a good dog... I know I am.

[Savannah]

If I were a dog, that's exactly how I would want to go out. I'm so sorry for your loss, Igneouss.

[Elderberry]

You (or your friend) couldn't have wished for a better passing. I know how much you will miss him.

[goathead]

Keep coming back in here
not knowing what to say
Very lucky pup, to have a person like you
(((((Ig)))))
loss should always hurt
means something very precious is gone

[Igneouss]

*tears* *thanks* *hugs*

[Eric]

I'm so sorry Igneous. The loss of a companion always hurts. *hugs*

[lucky420]

Beautifully said Goathead... ((Ig))

[Igneouss]

For a snarky bunch of miscreants you sure can be nice (((*.*)))

[ygmir]

dang sorry, Ig............that's such a tough thing.
But, as stated, how could it be better?
Who, could ask for more, than to be ushered out, easily, in loving company.


Fare-well,
friend,
companion,
warrior,
guardian of the hearth,
protector of family,
Fair farmind of true intent and loyalty,
and love,
Stride proudly into the unknown,
May you find your place
and may it be fair
as we accept your absence.......

for my friends who grieve, may it be true.
Ygmir

[Minxy]

Aw. 11 years IS a good life span for a large dog. Our dog has an expected life span of 8-10 years, so I know I'll be going through that experience again myself in a few years.

I'm sorry for your pain and loss. I'm thankful and glad that you got to spend some joyous, loving time with your furry family member.

[capjbadger]

Damn man... I'm so sorry. ((Ig))

-Badger