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Cat Forum / Cat Anecdotes / June 2006Betty's traitor
A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than my own. Yesterday, I took Betty in to the vet for another follow-up reevaluation. I had been dreading it because I knew what they were going to tell me. Betty's jaw had started to look worse the last week. They put Betty on the examining table and looked at her jaw. The tech gasped sharply and looked away. The vet looked grim. "We have to think of her quality of life," she said. I hung my head. I heard myself say, "Another week." "I want another week..." She replied, "But not much longer, or else she'll really suffer. She must be in a lot of pain." Betty, if you're in pain, why don't you tell me? Why do you have to continue to act so loving and polite and innocent? So I set up Betty's final vet appointment for Betty Saturday afternoon. I thought it would give me a couple more days to think things over. On the first day I made this decision, I kept getting what seemed like panic attacks, where I would start hyperventilating and end up feeling like throwing up. The overwhelming emotion I was feeling was guilt. I was supposed to take care of Betty, not kill her off! Whatever happened to, "First, do no harm"? I can't help feeling that destroying something so beautiful and wonderful must be a grave sin. In Hinduism, I understand killing a Brahmin is a sin so great that even a god must be punished for it. I feel like that's what I am doing - killing above my station. I stopped having these attacks when I reframed what I was doing. I can't stomach my own hypocrisy. I told Betty I loved her. I told her I would take care of her. And she always has so much love and trust in me. But what premeditated tragedy am I plotting behind her back now? I've betrayed her. How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. > How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and > the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. When you let Betty go those things will all still be there. Yes this is hard. But I'm guessing this last gift will not be as hard as you anticipate. Betty will still always be in your heart and in the stars as well. The next bit will be bitter sweet. But still sweet. Be brave and love her good-by. Jo >When you let Betty go those things will all still be there. Yes this is >hard. But I'm guessing this last gift will not be as hard as you [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] >The next bit will be bitter sweet. But still sweet. Be brave and love her >good-by. I hope that it won't be hard. I especially hope that Betty's last moments will be peaceful. Betty will always be in your heart, will always be in your soul, will always be in your thoughts. Never forget that ever. Every person, place, friend, companion 2 or four legged WILL ALWAYS BE A PART OF YOU HEART AND SOUL. I wrote something to go along with the poem called the Rainbow bridge. It it something that gets me thru the days when I feel like there is nothing Always remember We will be there even if you can't see us. We are always Watching and Waiting. That cool puff of air you feel across your cheek, that fleeting touch, the feeling you have that I was walking across your bed, that moment you swear you can hear us, that flicker of movement out of the corner of your eye. Is just our way of saying I love you and I am with you always even in the darkest time We Will Always Be There. Till our paws touch again always know we love you and cherished our special time together I know it hurts. I know the guilt is painful it tells me one thing you loved Betty as much as life itself. I am in tears as I write this for I wish I had words that could comfort you, to tell you it will be ok, allow you to cry on my shoulder, scream at the world to relief the pain. >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. >I know it hurts. I know the guilt is painful it tells me one thing you >loved Betty as much as life itself. I am in tears as I write this for I >wish I had words that could comfort you, to tell you it will be ok, allow >you to cry on my shoulder, scream at the world to relief the pain. I want to thank you for your tears. I felt a little better as soon as I finished writing my post. When I wrote it all down, the strength in those thoughts seemed to have transferred to the group. When they were given form and put to words, my guilts and fears were no longer swirling around in my head, but could be acknowledged and held in my heart. On Thu 01 Jun 2006 08:42:14p, Takayuki wrote in rec.pets.cats.anecdotes (news:ohvu729k0hhjpa5mlavrpom85ajqms7v3l@ 4ax.com): > "I want another week..." Tak, I don't know what is worse. Having a little more time; time that precedes the grief of physical death with the grief of anticipating it, or going straight to grieving what was. Either way, it isn't easy. You both are in our prayers, and extra purrs are going out to you during this hard time.  SignatureCheryl >On Thu 01 Jun 2006 08:42:14p, Takayuki wrote in >rec.pets.cats.anecdotes (news:ohvu729k0hhjpa5mlavrpom85ajqms7v3l@ [quoted text clipped - 7 lines] >easy. You both are in our prayers, and extra purrs are going out to >you during this hard time. I'm actually very glad that I chose to wait a couple of days. If I had done it right away, I don't think I could have handled it. I needed some time to try to make sense of it. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > > "We have to think of her quality of life," she said. I know we all sympathize with what you're going through, Tak, but I think you're looking at it from too human a point of view. Most animals accept death without all the agonizing over it that we go through (after all, it IS a natural part of Life, and they recognize it as such). Put yourself in her place - would you want to go through prolonged, unnecessary agony knowing it would ultimately be terminal in any case? Or would you cut it short with a simple injection that sent you peacefully to sleep, with your loved ones around you? I've had to have several of my feline companions PTS. Perhaps sooner than I need have done, with some, although it was always at the vet's recommendation. I grieved for my companions, of course - but I've never regretted saving them from further misery. (I only wish the same choice were available to humans, when the same kind of situation arises!) >I know we all sympathize with what you're going through, >Tak, but I think you're looking at it from too human a point [quoted text clipped - 12 lines] >(I only wish the same choice were available to humans, when >the same kind of situation arises!) I'd never gone through this before, so I had no prior experience to go on. You have a more seasoned point of view. I believe it's slightly unfortunate that Betty's only had me to make all the major decisions for her. > I'd never gone through this before, so I had no prior experience to > go on. You have a more seasoned point of view. I believe it's > slightly unfortunate that Betty's only had me to make all the major > decisions for her. No, Tak. She has been blessed with you. Signaturemonique, who spoils Oscar unmercifully pictures: http://www.bounceswoosh.org/rpca > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. We are sending heartfelt purrs for Betty and you. MLB >We are sending heartfelt purrs for Betty and you. MLB Thank you. We always appreciate your thoughts. > The overwhelming emotion I was feeling was guilt. I was supposed to > take care of Betty, not kill her off! Whatever happened to, "First, [quoted text clipped - 14 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Tak, you've loved Betty dearly and done your best for her. Few people would have done so much, even for a cat they loved. I admit I don't know that I could have put any cat through a course of chemotherapy. You've made every possible effort to help her. I'm sure Betty knows this. It was sheerest bad luck that Betty got so sick instead of keeping you company for a normal cat's lifespan. It was not your fault at any time. I know it hurts terribly to let her go, and you will remember and mourn her for a very long time. But right now, I think it may be the kindest thing you can do for her. Say a loving farewell, and then let her cross the Bridge. I do not want to sound hard-hearted, but if the world has continued in spite of wars and natural disasters of which there have been far too many and which have taken far too many lives in recent years, the world will continue without Betty, also. It will be a sadder world for you, I know, and you have my sympathy. But I also speak as one who has recently had to say farewell to beloved cats. Letting Izzy and Panther go were two of the saddest days of my life so far, but... I'm still here. You will continue, also. Try to think of it not as a betrayal, but as the last and kindest thing to do for Betty. There's no need to do it "behind her back" as it were. Talk to her, explain why you feel the time has come, and above all, tell her you love her. Melissa >Tak, you've loved Betty dearly and done your best for her. Few people >would have done so much, even for a cat they loved. I admit I don't [quoted text clipped - 20 lines] >Talk to her, explain why you feel the time has come, and above all, >tell her you love her. I'm glad that I can hear from people who understand. I can also understand being reluctant about chemotherapy. Having gone through it for Betty, I can see a decision going either way. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. ((((((TAK & BETTY))))))))) Also am saying this with a hug: You must not blame yourself, and you must not beat yourself up over it. Betty will be fine. Animals aren't like us, they don't fear death. What Betty fears are the things she has known in her life; maybe hunger, neglect. With you, she doesn't have those fears. She knows she is loved and treasured. Tak, you did a wonderful thing for Betty. It isn't your fault she got sick. She would have gotten sick anyway. She was *so* fortunate to have you to take care of her after she did get sick. I don't know many pet owners who would have gone to the lengths you have for her. You'll miss Betty terribly, but the hardest part is *right now*. After you've made the decision. It is hard to explain but just know that I do know what you are going through and am thinking about you. Sherry >((((((TAK & BETTY))))))))) >Also am saying this with a hug: You must not blame yourself, and you [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] >you've made the decision. It is hard to explain but just know that I do >know what you are going through and am thinking about you. I do believe you're right that she'll be fine, in a way. I think that Betty was beloved even before we met though. When I brought her home, she was immediately happy and immediately took me for granted. When I sat down, she got on my lap. It was just a couple of hours after I had adopted her, and she was already fast asleep there. That night when I went to bed, she immediately joined me and tried to meatloaf on top of me. I wasn't used to that, so I dumped her off, and she ended up sleeping cuddled up on my left all night. > How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and > the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. But you are not killing her! You are giving her the ultimate gift of love. The one that requires you to hurt yourself. The one that is truly self-less. Hang in there. Purrs. SignatureVictor M. Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM) Send your spam here: uce@ftc.gov Email me here: pistorLITTER@BOXaustin.rr.com Takayuki wrote: > How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and > the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Tak, I know how you feel; we had the same issues with Ted (RB). The weight of responsibility is really, really heavy - to have to be responsible for the life or passing of another thinking being is so, so hard. But when it's the right decision you eventually come to realise that what's holding you back is your fear of being lonely without the other thinking being; your fear of being left behind. That turns out not to be so. You miss their physical bodies, but their spirit and, often, their ghosts stay with you. DH is still occasionally visited by the ghost of Ted jumping onto the bed and it brings him comfort as he still really misses her (she was to him as Betty is to you). Despite that, he knows we did the right thing in sending her to RB when we did - something that he did for *her* and not for himself. How can you be a traitor to give release from unceasing pain and increasing disablement? To do otherwise, at this stage, is unkind. But still it hurts you. Of course it does. We feel your pain and share it. Tish >Tak, I know how you feel; we had the same issues with Ted (RB). The >weight of responsibility is really, really heavy - to have to be [quoted text clipped - 16 lines] >We feel your pain and share it. >Tish It's exactly like you said - it's the responsibility that weighs on you. This cancer has made it impossible to fulfill my basic responsibility to keep Betty happy and healthy. I felt that I had to compromise on the care of the one that I'm responsible for, and that is so difficult to accept. >> How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and >> the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] > love. The one that requires you to hurt yourself. The one that is truly > self-less. Exactly! If she's suffering, and could speak, she would probably ASK you to end her pain. Remember that animals live in "the eternal now" - unlike humans, when they are in paid, they can't anticipate a time when that pain will end, even if it's a temporary condition. When it's a question of terminal disease which is NOT going to end happily, they must trust us to make such decisions for them. >But you are not killing her! You are giving her the ultimate gift of >love. The one that requires you to hurt yourself. The one that is truly >self-less. >Hang in there. >Purrs. I wasn't sure that it was selfless. I felt it would be self-serving of me to call it selfless. But I do know that I'm very much in love with Betty, and that everything I'll do for her, I'll do in that context. Tak, check your yahoo mail, I've sent you something there, it may help. >Tak, check your yahoo mail, I've sent you something there, it may help. Thank you Pat, it was beautiful. I'll need to wait until after... To see if this is a perspective that is true with me. You have in no way let Betty down. You have done absolutely everything possible to keep her as comfortable as possible in her final days. Enjoy the time you have left with her and don't beat yourself up. I'm sure that Betty wouldn't want that. You both are in our purr-ayers and thoughts. SignatureSam, closely supervised by Mistletoe >You have in no way let Betty down. You have done absolutely everything >possible to keep her as comfortable as possible in her final days. >Enjoy the time you have left with her and don't beat yourself up. I'm >sure that Betty wouldn't want that. > >You both are in our purr-ayers and thoughts. Thank you. I'll try, and I'll think about your thoughts. >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. I am so sorry to hear this. Please don't blame yourself, you did what you felt was best for her to try and give her the best chance of survival. Please give her lots of cuddles today. I'm sure Betty knows how much you love her. Sending purrs for both of you Kathryn >I am so sorry to hear this. Please don't blame yourself, you did what you >felt was best for her to try and give her the best chance of survival. [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] > >Kathryn It was a few months ago that I tried to give her the best chance of survival. But now... She is getting lots of cuddles. Tonight is our last night together. >>I am so sorry to hear this. Please don't blame yourself, you did what you >>felt was best for her to try and give her the best chance of survival. [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > > She is getting lots of cuddles. Tonight is our last night together. Do what you can bring yourself to do. But if you can manage hold her in your arms while the give her the drugs. Or hold your arms around her on the table. And take a little time to say good by after its over. I've always been glad I'm there. I held mine when they were born and when they died. They knew they were safe in my arms so they went without fear. It is not as bad an experience as you might imagine. I always had the gift that I knew I did the only right thing. The only possible thing. And yes sometimes I waited longer than kindness allows but it is very hard to decide now. Jo Tak, Such a tough decision, I'm sure most of us dread the time we face what you're going through. I know we've waited too long for some of our guys, but we had to be absolutely sure. I had to know that it was right because I had to be able to live with the decision forever. Talk to Betty about it and see if she is ready. I know you are watching her closely for any signs. I may be going against the stream a bit here, but make sure you know in your heart without a doubt that it is the right time. Betty will help you when you are both ready. I'm so sorry you have to go through this. Rhonda > Yesterday, I took Betty in to the vet for another follow-up > reevaluation. I had been dreading it because I knew what they were > going to tell me. Betty's jaw had started to look worse the last > week. >Tak, > [quoted text clipped - 13 lines] > >Rhonda Thank you for your advice, and for your different and carefully considered point of view. I'm not sure if I'll ever be sure. Even now, I'm not sure if it's too late, too early, or just right. I know what the veterinarians would day, because they're inured to this. Our time with our kitties is just a string of days, wonderful kitty days and nights. Even an extra day is very precious. Ambiguity - Betty rubbed at me, marking me, acting happy, being happy, I think, that we're together. But I realized that she was rubbing with a stump of jawbone, and was marking me with her blood. At that moment, I felt so guilty. Why couldn't I make things all better for her? This last act is all I can do now. > Ambiguity - Betty rubbed at me, marking me, acting happy, being > happy, I think, that we're together. [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > couldn't I make things all better for her? This last act is all I > can do now. *hug* I don't have answers for you. All I can do is offer you my support, regardless of the answer you choose. Signaturemonique, who spoils Oscar unmercifully pictures: http://www.bounceswoosh.org/rpca > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 16 lines] > She replied, "But not much longer, or else she'll really suffer. She > must be in a lot of pain." That was my initial reaction the last time I took Frank to the vet. The vet tried to talk me into having him put to sleep right then and there, but I wanted to hold on to him and never let him go. The next week I rang the vet and asked her if she would make a house call to release Frank. > Betty, if you're in pain, why don't you tell me? Why do you have to > continue to act so loving and polite and innocent? [quoted text clipped - 18 lines] > in me. But what premeditated tragedy am I plotting behind her back > now? I've betrayed her. I know exactly how you feel. The guilt still gnaws at me about Frank. I still feel I betrayed him, though I know he was very old and unwell. > How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and > the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. {{{Tak}}} In spite of the guilt you are feeling, you really are doing the best thing for Betty. In spite of all his health problems, Frank was his loving old self right until the end. When you can't see the suffering, it's hard sometimes to believe it is there. The only thing that tells me I did the right thing is when I think about how much weight he had lost, and how he felt when I lifted him up. He was literally skin an bones, and it even felt like his skeleton had become hollow, like birds' bones, he was so light. So each time you feel that you are betraying Betty, look at her jaw and think about what it must feel like. She loves you and trusts you to do the right thing by her. I will be thinking of you both on Saturday. Purrs and hugs on the way. <tears> SignatureMarina, Miranda and Caliban. In loving memory of Frank and Nikki. Stories and pics at http://koti.welho.com/mkurten/ Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki > {{{Tak}}} In spite of the guilt you are feeling, you really are > doing the best thing for Betty. In spite of all his health problems, > Frank was his loving old self right until the end. When you can't > see the suffering, it's hard sometimes to believe it is there. It's a long story, but the short version is that I wasn't there when my brother had my dog Puma PTS. I really wish I had been, for many reasons, but the main one is that my brother reported that afterwards, when Puma's body relaxed, he realized for the first time how tense Puma had been. He could see that Puma was now in peace, as he clearly hadn't been for a while. Sometimes when we see someone every day, we don't recognize the changes they're going through. Signaturemonique, who spoils Oscar unmercifully pictures: http://www.bounceswoosh.org/rpca >> {{{Tak}}} In spite of the guilt you are feeling, you really are >> doing the best thing for Betty. In spite of all his health problems, [quoted text clipped - 8 lines] >hadn't been for a while. Sometimes when we see someone every day, we >don't recognize the changes they're going through. I can understand this. When I found my last mouse, Pebbles, dead one morning (he was old and having seizures), his eyes and mouth were open, and his forelegs were in the air as though he were struggling against something. The poor thing must have suffered at the end. But even in that state, I could see that there was a moment of release, frozen there. I could almost feel a final exhale, as though in relief. Even in a mouse. >That was my initial reaction the last time I took Frank to the vet. The >vet tried to talk me into having him put to sleep right then and there, >but I wanted to hold on to him and never let him go. The next week I >rang the vet and asked her if she would make a house call to release Frank. You had such a long history with Frank. I can understand how you didn't want to let him go. I had this romantic notion that Betty and I would be together forever, or at least I hoped that Betty would outlive me. >I know exactly how you feel. The guilt still gnaws at me about Frank. I >still feel I betrayed him, though I know he was very old and unwell. ... >{{{Tak}}} In spite of the guilt you are feeling, you really are doing >the best thing for Betty. In spite of all his health problems, Frank was [quoted text clipped - 7 lines] >feel like. She loves you and trusts you to do the right thing by her. I >will be thinking of you both on Saturday. Purrs and hugs on the way. <tears> I know that you have nothing to feel guilty about! But we seem to have gone through a lot of the same things. Regarding her jaw, from observing her for a long time, I suspect that it doesn't normally hurt much except when manipulated. The cancer progressed relatively slowly, destroying bone and tissue as it went, like a cross between teething and an amputation. ((((Tak)))!!!! I wish I could spare you this pain; it is always harder to be the one left behind, but if you are truly her dearest and best friend and companion, as I know you are, you will realise that sparing Betty suffering is what her truest and most loyal friend would do for her. Remember always what a wonderful life you were able to gift her with, and she, you. I believe love endures and crosses all boundaries; she will always be there for you in your heart and memories and at the Bridge. I think you will always cherish what you shared and that, at some point, she will point the way for you to share your wonderful love and caring to another one who needs it. If I look back on those dear fur friends I've been so very lucky to have shared time with, I remember them with great love that they graced my life and I know they will always be there for me. Much love and many hugs and purrs from us, Tak. We will be thinking of you on Saturday and lighting a candle for Betty's way. Christine and Oreo, Midnight, Robin & Tucker and with beloved remembrance of Frodo, Shetra, and Omar. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. >((((Tak)))!!!! I wish I could spare you this pain; it is always harder to be >the one left behind, but if you are truly her dearest and best friend and [quoted text clipped - 13 lines] >Much love and many hugs and purrs from us, Tak. We will be thinking of you >on Saturday and lighting a candle for Betty's way. I hope it is true that she'll be there for me. That's such a lovely thought. At least it's better than the thought I had briefly - I imagined Betty's spirit looking down at me and being shocked and dismayed at what I had done to her. >> ((((Tak)))!!!! I wish I could spare you this pain; it is always harder to be >> the one left behind, but if you are truly her dearest and best friend and [quoted text clipped - 18 lines] > imagined Betty's spirit looking down at me and being shocked and > dismayed at what I had done to her. I think she would be much more dismayed to see you hurting yourself beyond the pain of loss and over guilt. Guilt is such a poor use of our love. That sounds harsh, but my siblings went around feeling guilty they didn't pay my dad more attention when he was alive and it seemed so useless. I don't think *he* saw them that way. It was their own self perception of the children they thought they should be. Don't let Betty's love be eclipsed by guilt. She would not want that. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Stories such as this one bring to mind the poem that I found on the websites related to the Abston Church of Christ, and the Lego Church that has become a temple in memorial of its builder's late cat, Precious. Poem, though in public domain, is quoted from website http://www.amyhughes.org/lego/church/ Lend Me a Kitten I will lend to you for a while a kitten, God said. For you to love while she lives, and mourn when she's dead. Maybe for twelve or fourteen years, or maybe two or three. But will you, 'till I call her back, take care of her for me? She'll bring her charms to gladden you and should her stay be brief, you'll always have her memories as solace for your grief. I cannot promise she will stay, since all from earth return. But there are lessons taught below I want this kitten to learn. I've looked the whole world over in search of teachers true, And from the folk that crowds life's land I have chosen you. Now will you give her all your love, nor think the labor vain? Nor hate me when I come to take my kitten home again? And my heart replied, "My Lord, Thy Will Be Done." For all the joys this kitten brings, the risk of grief I'll run. I'll shelter her with tenderness, I'll love her while I may. And for the happiness that I've known, forever grateful stay. But should you call her back much sooner than I planned, I'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand. If by my love I've managed your wishes to achieve, in memory of her sweet sweet love, please help me while I grieve. When my cherished kitten departs this world of strife, Please send yet another needing soul for me to love all her life. ~ This poem was adapted from "I'll Lend You A Child" by Edgar Guest. It was sent to me after Precious died. A google search indicates it is often used when a pet dies, but I don't know who adapted it. >Stories such as this one bring to mind the poem that I found on >the websites related to the Abston Church of Christ, and the [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > >http://www.amyhughes.org/lego/church/ Thank you for the poem, and I think I know the cat-dedicated Lego church you're talking about - it's pretty incredible. (snip) > The overwhelming emotion I was feeling was guilt. I was supposed to > take care of Betty, not kill her off! Whatever happened to, "First, [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > punished for it. I feel like that's what I am doing - killing above > my station. Tak, I can't do any more than echo what other have said, as I have never yet had to make this decision, and am dreading the day when it comes. But whatever you may be feeling, you have taken the greatest care of Betty, without which she would never have lived as long as she has done. You have done no harm, and will not be doing harm by your decision. Many purrs for you both - Deb. Signaturehttp://www.scientific-art.com "He looked a fierce and quarrelsome cat, but claw he never would; He only bit the ones he loved, because they tasted good." S. Greenfield >Tak, I can't do any more than echo what other have said, as I have never >yet had to make this decision, and am dreading the day when it comes. >But whatever you may be feeling, you have taken the greatest care of >Betty, without which she would never have lived as long as she has done. >You have done no harm, and will not be doing harm by your decision. Many >purrs for you both - I hope that you'll continue to be lucky and not have this happen to you. As slaves, we know it's always possible... I appreciate your words, and they really do bring some comfort. Everyone's has. > I hope that you'll continue to be lucky and not have this happen to > you. As slaves, we know it's always possible... I appreciate your > words, and they really do bring some comfort. Everyone's has. Thanks Tak. One day I expect it will happen, I know it's not 'if', but 'when'. I'm so glad you have got some comfort. I only wish we all weren't so far away so you could have company, as well as comfort. We will all be thinking of you and Betty especially hard today. Deb. Signaturehttp://www.scientific-art.com "He looked a fierce and quarrelsome cat, but claw he never would; He only bit the ones he loved, because they tasted good." S. Greenfield > I stopped having these attacks when I reframed what I was doing. I > can't stomach my own hypocrisy. I told Betty I loved her. I told her [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both.///// OH TAK {{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}} Words can't express how you must be feeling now, and I really do feel your pain. But sometimes the greatest gift is the one final act we give our friends to let them go with their dignity and to relieve their suffering. Betty will never die. She will be the wind that blows through your hair when you take a walk, she will be the shadow in the corner of your eye as you turn suddenly, and trust me, she will understand and thank you for the gift of love. Better that she goes to Rainbow Bridge having been loved by a devoted friend and to have someone to wait for. She'll always hold a shard of all our hearts, and have no doubt, she will live on with all of us who knew her through your stories and love. {{{{HUGS}}}} and many purrs and prayers Helen M >OH TAK {{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}} > [quoted text clipped - 11 lines] > >{{{{HUGS}}}} and many purrs and prayers Thank you. I am glad that there are others who know and will remember Betty. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] > going to tell me. Betty's jaw had started to look worse the last > week. I wish there was something I could say that would help. The most difficult thing about loving our little companions is that they're with us for so little time. You have done no harm to Betty. You have loved her well, and you're still doing that. Please tell her how much we all love her too. >I wish there was something I could say that would help. The most >difficult thing about loving our little companions is that they're with >us for so little time. >You have done no harm to Betty. You have loved her well, and you're >still doing that. Please tell her how much we all love her too. It doesn't feel as though our relationships with them should be temporary, does it? I knew that cats had shorter lifespans than we do, but this felt especially short. Not that it would have been easier if it ended after a long relationship - that's probably even harder. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Tak, I'm sorry for you and Betty. I'll have Spicey purr for you. All I can say is that you did everything you could. But Death/Mortality is something we have no control over. You must now let her body go. But a piece of her will live on in your heart. Call me if you need someone to listen. Suz&Spicey >Tak, I'm sorry for you and Betty. I'll have Spicey purr for you. All I >can say is that you did everything you could. But Death/Mortality is >something we have no control over. You must now let her body go. But a >piece of her will live on in your heart. Call me if you need someone to >listen. >Suz&Spicey Thank you Suz. I appreciate your thoughts and Spicey's purrs. We both got our cats at around the same timeframe! It seems like we've had them for a long time, that they really belong with us. I know I almost feel as though my life started when I met Betty. Like I was born on that day. >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. {{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}} There's nothing I can write that will take the pain away. But just know, Tak, that's it's *NOT* a betrayal, it's the last, greatest (most costly to our hearts) gift that we can give those who spent their whole lives giving us all their love and wisdom. Hugs, Lori >{{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}} > [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > >Lori We do really owe them a lot. They choose to humor and love us hoomins. <gently cuddled for space> > I stopped having these attacks when I reframed what I was doing. I > can't stomach my own hypocrisy. I told Betty I loved her. I told her [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Do you know the difference between a fool, a coward, and a hero? The fool goes into the situation oblivious to the hurt or risk and therefore feels no fear. The coward recognises the potential hurt and risk in the situation, and shies away in fear. The hero, upon seeing the the potential hurt and risk in the situation, feels all the fear that the coward felt, but goes ahead anyway *because its the right thing to do*. I can't tell you that it won't hurt, that you won't feel like a miserable heel, or that you could spend the rest of your life playing the 'if only' game . What I can tell you, though, is that you *know* that this is the right decision, even if it does hurt you terribly, and that, being the quiet unsung hero that you are, will do the right thing by Betty, even while your own heart is breaking. Our purrs and prayers are with you and with Betty. Yowie >Do you know the difference between a fool, a coward, and a hero? > [quoted text clipped - 14 lines] > >Our purrs and prayers are with you and with Betty. Then by these definitions, I am a coward, and Betty is a fool. I'm just kidding, Vicky! I need to de-stress a little - today is Betty's last day. I *do* feel like a heel, and I've said "if only" so many times that I've run out of if-onlys. It's been a sad few days. >>Do you know the difference between a fool, a coward, and a hero? >> [quoted text clipped - 23 lines] > last day. I *do* feel like a heel, and I've said "if only" so many > times that I've run out of if-onlys. It's been a sad few days. *Hugs* You & Betty will be in my thoughts. Yowie Tak, I'm so sorry to hear that your time with Betty is coming to an end. Much too soon. But you have not done a thing wrong, you have gone above and beyond the call of duty to care for her. You did all you could and I know that she knows that. There is only so much that modern medicine can do for a case of cancer like hers. I would only hope that at some point you will feel ready to love another cat again. I know your heart is broken now, but you have a lot of love to give and should not deny another cat the chance at such a good and loving home, which you can definitely provide. Hugs and purrs, SignatureBritta Purring is an automatic safety valve device for dealing with happiness overflow. Check out pictures of Vino at: http://photos.yahoo.com/badwilson click on the Vino album > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. >Tak, I'm so sorry to hear that your time with Betty is coming to an end. >Much too soon. But you have not done a thing wrong, you have gone above [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] >to give and should not deny another cat the chance at such a good and >loving home, which you can definitely provide. I explained to Betty that I wasn't able to fix her, and that I was very sorry. Maybe someday, there will be a cure for this kind of cancer... You also have an only-cat... Although I wonder if he always will be, now that you've settled down? Tak, you have done *nothing* wrong. You have given Betty the best most-loved years of her life. Remember that as you give her the final gift. And I'll be crying all week at work now, thinking of how much it will hurt. I can sympathize. Consider yourself hugged. Jane All I can tell you Tak, is that you will never have a world without Betty. How can that be? Even if her little body is gone, SHE remains with you. This group is testimony to this. We all relate constantly to RB kitties (and people for that matter). We relate to the world differently than before we knew these people (yes, Betty is a people). My heart goes out to you. You are not planning a horrible thing for her, you are not betraying her. You have certainly taken care of her. Can you imagine Betty's life if YOU had not brought her home from the shelter? I know you don't want to hear it, but chances are she would be long gone from the earth and without Daddy cuddles and without bringing a whole dimension to someone's life as she has done for you. Be strong. It is natural to want to keep her but Tak, she is sick. No matter how polite and loving she is (that is Betty after all, she is one of the kindest cats ever) she is sick. Don't let her suffer but don't you suffer extra pain thinking you are doing something sinful and awful. I think you really know that deep down. I'm certain Betty does not think you trecherous or mean or that you have failed. Please, Tak, you will have enough pain without this guilt that is so totally unnecessary and underserving. Please celebrate Betty. Do not turn her into a guilt thing. It is not fair to her, nor to you. You BOTH have just always been doing what is best for each other. I feel terrible that I was a lead goader to you, and yet I am not. When I think of the amazing journey I have followed with you and Betty, I know it was just meant to be.((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))) ))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. >All I can tell you Tak, is that you will never have a world without Betty. >How can that be? Even if her little body is gone, SHE remains with you. This [quoted text clipped - 20 lines] >be.((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))) >))))))))))))))))))))))))))))) I guess happiness loves company. You helped me meet someone wonderful, and I'm grateful for that. I still remember how strange it felt to have this wide-eyed little creature following me everywhere. She's still following me, still here. She's lying very elegantly on my lap now, sleepy and purry, just like that very first day I brought her home. >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I >enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] >there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be >*me* anymore. I would have killed us both. I know so well how you feel. My Mimi pulled the same ultimate bastard cat trick on me when she suddenly turned up with acute renal failure. I had no idea what was happening inside her. And I still to this day wonder how, how it could have happened, what I did wrong-- why didn't I, how couldn't I have known? But I'm still here, and wow, it's ten years later. It blows my mind to consider that! I can't say anything that I know will help you-- you will feel horrible. But Betty won't. Betty won't feel betrayed by you. And Betty won't have to be brave anymore. Betty won't hurt, or have to feel any more pain. And you will be responsible for ending her pain. It was right that such a special little creature should have gone to someone who was so uniquely qualified to appreciate her, to give her a wonderful life, to give her as much of it as was possible, and then to take away her pain. {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}} Theresa Stinky Pictures: http://community.webshots.com/album/125591586JWEFwh My Blog: http://www.humanitas.blogspot.com Make Levees, Not War >>Yesterday, I took Betty in to the vet for another follow-up >>reevaluation. I had been dreading it because I knew what they were >>going to tell me. Betty's jaw had started to look worse the last >>week. Dear Tak No words can make you feel better at this awful time. Later, when you've had time to grieve, you may come to consider that you were really Betty's saviour: she's had all the love, companionship & caring in the world, hasn't she? I know you'll never forgive yourself for letting her contract that awful disease, as I can never forgive myself for letting my Pericles catch his fatal virus, but you will (as I slowly have) come to terms with the fact that it's a cruel twist of fate and not our personal failure. My thoughts and my masters' purrs will be with you through the unbearable next few days. Gordon, Bandit, Snowball, Claudius & Raki >Dear Tak > [quoted text clipped - 12 lines] > >Gordon, Bandit, Snowball, Claudius & Raki I'll take the time to think about it. I couldn't be her savior in the end, but my time with Betty has been happy. >I know so well how you feel. > [quoted text clipped - 17 lines] > >{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}} Their ultimate bastard cat trick is to get sick and die. They're such wonderful creatures that it doesn't seem that they should be so ephemeral. They're each a unique treasure, not something temporary and disposable. I wish so much that Betty could stay with me forever. > How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and > the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Every now and then, Soft as breath upon my skin, I feel you come back again, And it's like you haven't been Gone a moment from my side, Like the tears were never cried, Like the hands of time were holding you and me. And with all my heart I'm sure We're closer than we ever were, I don't have to hear or see, I've got all the proof I need. There are more than angels watching over me! I believe, Oh I believe.... Now when you die your life goes on, It doesn't end here when you're gone. Every soul is filled with light. It never ends, if I'm right. Our love can even reach across eternity. I believe, Oh I believe.... Forever you're a part of me, Forever in the heart of me, I will hold you even longer if I can. Oh the people, who don't see the most, See that I believe in ghosts. If that makes me crazy, then I am. 'Cause I believe, Oh I believe There are more than angels Watching over me, I believe, Oh I believe.... Every now and then, Soft as breath upon my skin, I feel you come back again... And I believe. That is so lovely. >> How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and >> the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be [quoted text clipped - 42 lines] > I feel you come back again... > And I believe. Oh, {{{{{{Takayuki}}}}}} I know how hard this decision is. And I know your heart is breaking. You don't want your sweet Betty to suffer. And to stop that, you have to do what you have to do. She can't make the decision for herself, or she probably would. One thing I firmly believe is that they do not blame us. They know we love them, and are doing our best for them. Please know that Betty will love you and be grateful to you for helping her to cross the Bridge when that time comes. The rest of the world will always be there for you, as Betty will always be a part of that, and a part of you. My heart is breaking for you. Blessings, Ginger-lyn >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I >enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] >there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be >*me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Home Pages: http://www.moonsummer.com http://www.angelfire.com/folk/glsummer (homepage & cats) http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~summer/index.htm (genealogy) http://www.movieanimals.bravehost.com/ (The Violence Against Animals in Movies Website) >Oh, {{{{{{Takayuki}}}}}} > [quoted text clipped - 17 lines] > >Ginger-lyn I've really been up and down today, but I'm glad that I have a chance to say goodbye to my poor little baby Betty. She doesn't deserve to have cancer, or to die. She's always been such a good little cat. Tak, Purrs of comfort for both you and Betty. You have been a wonderful slave for Betty and she lived a much improved life because of you. Tell her how much you love her and that it is hard, but the time has come to let her go on to her next phase of existence. Hold her while she passes. I know it hurts, I've had to go through it twice and with 4 current cats and I'm sure I will again. She will not hurt on her journey to RB, but I know you will. Feel comfort in that you did all you could to help her. I hope when you are feeling better you will consider taking in another kitty in need. You have so much to offer and our furry friends certainly add a twinkle to our lives. Please take someone with you when you take Betty to the vet, if you can. I don't remember where you live. Does anyone from this group live nearby? {{{{{{{Tak}}}}}}}} Debbie dberry@mitre.org > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. > Tak, > [quoted text clipped - 19 lines] > Debbie > dberry@mitre.org I was thinking today, I wished I lived closer. I wish all of us did. >Tak, > [quoted text clipped - 17 lines] > >{{{{{{{Tak}}}}}}}} Thank you Debbie. I think I'll be okay. I didn't think so before, and I initially had some somewhat hysterical thoughts about what I would do with myself after Betty was gone, but I've settled down. Betty is with me now, and she always has a calming effect. >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I >enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] >there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be >*me* anymore. I would have killed us both. {{{{{{Takayuki}}}}}} You are doing the right thing. Love Betty enough to let her go. When you look up you will see Betty smiling down on you for freeing her from her pain and suffering. Randy >{{{{{{Takayuki}}}}}} > [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > >Randy I will remember your kind words today when I take Betty in for her final trip. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. I'm so so sorry to hear this. There is absolutely no reason for you to feel guilty, Tak. You have given Betty the best life anyone could give her. You love her so much, you gave her everything you could, you gave her the best medical care possible. You have done the very best possible. You are not to blame at all! You are not doing any harm at all releasing Betty so she can go to the RB to wait for you there. But I know this is really really hard. Maybe you can talk to her about releasing her, because you are in no way betraying her. You are doing what is so very hard for you just so she does not suffer anymore. Betty will always be a part of your life as she will be a part of life of every member of rpca. We are sending both of you lots and lots of very gentle hugs and purrs, Polonca and Soncek >I'm so so sorry to hear this. >There is absolutely no reason for you to feel guilty, Tak. You have [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] >We are sending both of you lots and lots of very gentle hugs and purrs, >Polonca and Soncek Thank you. I have talked to her about it. I couldn't face her at first, but now I can. She doesn't suspect what will happen today, but she won't suffer anymore. >>I'm so so sorry to hear this. >>There is absolutely no reason for you to feel guilty, Tak. You have [quoted text clipped - 13 lines] > first, but now I can. She doesn't suspect what will happen today, but > she won't suffer anymore. We are thinking of Betty and you, Tak, and sending purrs that Betty will be happy at the RB and that your heart will not hurt too much. Maybe someday Betty will show a kitty a way to you, Tak. Lots and lots of gentle hugs, Polonca and Soncek {{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}} I am not very good with words, but others have very eloquently expressed how I feel for you and Betty. You NOT a traitor--you have been Betty's strong and loving hero from the day you first saw her and adopted her. Purrs for your breaking heart... Gennie >{{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}} > [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] >Purrs for your breaking heart... >Gennie I think that your words are as eloquent as anyone's. Thank you for your thoughts. {{{{{{{{{{Tak and Betty}}}}}}}}}} I am not very good with words, but others have very eloquently expressed how I feel for you and Betty. You NOT a traitor--you have been Betty's strong and loving hero from the day you first saw her and adopted her. Purrs for your breaking heart... Gennie .. > How can there be a world without Betty? What I look at the moon and > the stars and the trees, I see Betty. Will all those things still be > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. Tak, Betty will live on in your heart and your memories. You will be the you that you became because you are one of the privileged to have been owned by a cat. And Betty is fortunate and better off for having owned your heart. You will not kill Betty. Only her body will be gone, Her spirit will stay with you. Hugs, Annie Tak, I hope you know we are all thinking of you and Betty and sending you all our very best thoughts, wishes, prayers and purrs. We're all right here. Theresa Stinky Pictures: http://community.webshots.com/album/125591586JWEFwh My Blog: http://www.humanitas.blogspot.com Make Levees, Not War Hugs and tears, and a candle to light the way for Betty, your first kitty love. I will miss her. :,-( , , , , Joyce >Hugs and tears, and a candle to light the way for Betty, your first >kitty love. I will miss her. [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > >Joyce Thank you Joyce. I'll miss her too... Being in love can be so painful. Betty is a part of me. And I'm a part of Betty too. >Tak, >Betty will live on in your heart and your memories. You will be the you [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] >Hugs, >Annie We're both happiest when we're together. Betty's capacity for love has always amazed me. Dear Tak: My thoughts are with you today. You are so sensitive to Betty and have done so much for her that I can imagine that this last step can seem confusing. I hope that you can find the comfort you need. {{{{hugs}}}} Susan M Otis and Chester >A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than [quoted text clipped - 44 lines] > there when Betty is gone? I'll lose so much of myself that I won't be > *me* anymore. I would have killed us both. > A possible TW on what I am going to say. I apologize for that - I > enjoy the funny and the happy and the strange stories here more than > my own. <snip> I'm so sorry, Takayuki, I know there's nothing anyone can say that will ease your pain but knowing when Betty passes, nothing will ever hurt her again. Be strong, it's the hardest thing we ever have to do for our beloved companions. SignatureAdrian (Owned by Snoopy and Bagheera) Cats leave pawprints on your heart. http://community.webshots.com/user/clowderuk Dear Tak, Am 02.06.2006 schrieb Takayuki: > Yesterday, I took Betty in to the vet for another follow-up > reevaluation. I had been dreading it because I knew what they were > going to tell me. Betty's jaw had started to look worse the last > week. no one can love a cat more than you do. Your relationship with Betty is very special. I understand, that you feel like a traitor, but you are not! On the contrary, you are the one who releases her from pain and agony. You are the one who gives her the greatest gift of love you can give to her. And because Betty knows, she will not show you any pain. Please see this as Bettys gift to you. She loves you dearly and doesn't want to hurt you. Please keep always in mind, that Betty will watch you from the bridge to make sure, that you are ok. A storm of comforting purrs from our catgang is coming over to you and your beloved Betty. Hugs and purrs to you Inge & Volker and the catgang SignatureCatManiacs World: http://www.gwsystems.com/inge > no one can love a cat more than you do. Your relationship with Betty is > very special. Betty will be thankful when you deliver her from the pain that her cancer is causing her. It was good to give her as much quality time with you as you could, but now it is time to set her free from the pain that comes with her current incarnation on this earth. It is in the nature of a cat to hide her pain as much as she can, and she clearly still loves you...she would not want you to be sad or to feel you have betrayed her when in fact you have always had her best interests at heart. If you get another cat someday, it will NEVER Be to replace Betty, but because one of the best things you can do to honour Betty's memory is to offer another kitty a chance at survival and happiness. She may even SEND you a lost soul to care for. Bright Blessings, Fil >> no one can love a cat more than you do. Your relationship with Betty is >> very special. >If you get another cat someday, it will NEVER Be to replace Betty, but >because one of the best things you can do to honour Betty's memory is >to offer another kitty a chance at survival and happiness. She may >even SEND you a lost soul to care for. No one will ever "replace" Betty; Betty's her own special soul. Others may follow her, as siblings come after the first child. I learned the hard way. Fritzie was my first kitty love, and he had to go into "retirement" when he was almost 19. Home wasn't a home without a kitty, but I was so afraid of dishonoring his memory. Louie said it, and Fil says it now: no one will replace Betty, ever. She will always be a part of you, and you'll always miss her, but she'll never leave you. It's no dishonor to her memory to take another; in fact, to give your kitty-love to one who needs it is a testament to Betty's soul, how she could not only give you love, but give the ability to give love. When you look at the moon and stars, they'll be there, and Betty will too. She came from the stars, as I believe we all do. And when you look into the heavens you'll see twinkles in her eyes looking back at you and thanking you for loving her enough to give mercy, the greatest of gifts. You will not commit murder, but the highest act of love, an act that will hurt you but you do it because you don't want your loved one to hurt anymore. It sucks. I know, believe me; but time does heal. There is one among the stars who will heal Betty of her pains and illness, and give her new strength, until you meet again, and she will play with child-angels who need to experience the joy that comes wrapped up in a kitty body. The angels will be there to thank you someday, and so will Betty. Blessed be, Baha > >> no one can love a cat more than you do. Your relationship with Betty is > >> very special. [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > No one will ever "replace" Betty; Betty's her own special soul. Others may > follow her, as siblings come after the first child. Respectful snippage. Baha is right. Betty is irreplaceable and she will be sorely missed. BUT.....she can have worthy successors, and I hope she will. And sooner, rather than later. The pain of Izzy's loss for me was much assuaged by having Pan around for company, and then by adopting Francesca. You have an abundance of love to give to a cat, Tak. Mourn Betty, certainly. She deserves that. But remember, there are many kitties who would be so thankful for a chance to give you their companionship, fun and love. I say this not as a callous "It's time for you to move on", but because I've found having a new cat to love greatly assuages the pain of losing a recently departed friend. I hope Betty will intervene on the far side of the Rainbow Bridge and send another cat in need to you soon for both your sakes. Farewell, dear Betty. I hope you find a sunny windowsill to curl up in on the far side of the Bridge while you wait, free of all your earthly pain and illness, for Tak! Melissa > Baha is right. Betty is irreplaceable and she will be sorely missed. > BUT.....she can have worthy successors, and I hope she will. And [quoted text clipped - 12 lines] > on the far side of the Bridge while you wait, free of all your earthly > pain and illness, &n |
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