Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called the Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water, and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals that had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….
Author Unknown
If it Should Be…
If it should be that I grow frail and weak, And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done – For this last battle can’t be won.
You will be sad, I understand; Don’t let your grief then stay your hand.
For this day more than all the rest, Your love and friendship stand the test.
We’ve had so many happy years, What is to come can hold no fears.
Would you want me to suffer so? When the time comes, let me go!
Take me where my needs they’ll tend. Only stay with me until the end.
And hold me firm and speak to me, until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see it is a kindness that you do for me.
Although my tail its last has waved, From pain and suffering I’ve been saved.
Do not grieve. It has to be you who must decide this thing to do.
We’ve been so close, we two, these years. Don’t let your heart hold any tears.
Author unknown