Farewell to my friend

I'm out of town on a business trip, and tomorrow I have to drive home and put my dog to sleep.

I've had him for longer than I've been married (12 years). He was diagnosed on Monday (without me there) with systemic cancer. He's failing fast.

He was always a faithful companion and loyal to me. He got along fine with my wife, but when I was at home, he was always by my side. Not only that, but he was very protective of my children.

When going on walks, if we passed by another dog or person that he didn't know, he would run right up to my son--putting himself between my son and the danger. Every time.

While I'm still working on oneitis with my wife, there's no question that my dog was the one. I could not ask for more from any companion.

Being perfectly honest, I've cried my eyes out tonight. I can't remember the last time I cried in grief.

"You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."

I've been reading Marcus Aurelius. It feels empty now.

"Loss is nothing else but change, and change is Nature's delight."

Seems silly to be so upset over a pet, but tonight I grieve.

Tomorrow, I will be a rock for my wife, my children, and my faithful friend.

Tomorrow, I will be a rock. Tonight I grieve.