Yesterday I helped to host a memorial service for a dog. Now this wasn’t just any dog, this was my dear friend’s companion for the past 10+ years. Sutter, a loyal and loving black lab, was rescued by my friend Cheri years ago. And Cheri, a loyal and loving woman, was rescued by Sutter in turn. Sutter was a dog that provided comfort, protection, and solace to Cheri and many others in her lifetime. Her passing was devastating to many, my family included.
When I told my son Joey, who recently turned five, that Sutter had died and gone to Heaven his response was simple and heartfelt, “That is so sad.” He was then struck by the thought that Sutter may fall out of Heaven at any minute and so we should all be careful and watch our heads. Tom and Conor, ages twelve and nine, were more visibly upset about Sutter’s passing. To them it was a reminder that there is an hourglass attached to us all and that time will run out. Their immediate thought was to our elderly dog Brian, and both wondered aloud how much more time we would have with him.
Last night the wake was held. A memorial canvas was on display of Sutter, paw print cupcakes and margaritas were served, and memories were shared. It wasn’t a time for sadness, but a time to come together and show our support.
When I told my son Joey, who recently turned five, that Sutter had died and gone to Heaven his response was simple and heartfelt, “That is so sad.” He was then struck by the thought that Sutter may fall out of Heaven at any minute and so we should all be careful and watch our heads. Tom and Conor, ages twelve and nine, were more visibly upset about Sutter’s passing. To them it was a reminder that there is an hourglass attached to us all and that time will run out. Their immediate thought was to our elderly dog Brian, and both wondered aloud how much more time we would have with him.
Last night the wake was held. A memorial canvas was on display of Sutter, paw print cupcakes and margaritas were served, and memories were shared. It wasn’t a time for sadness, but a time to come together and show our support.
To some it may seem odd that a memorial service was held for a dog. To me, it was important to honor Sutter because she meant so much to Cheri. And to me, it's not really about whether or not we are memorializing an animal or a person... memorials are to honor loved ones that have passed and Sutter was loved beyond words.
At the end of the evening Joey asked why Sutter didn’t wait and go to Heaven with Cheri, he said, “a smart dog would have waited.” I tried to explain that it doesn’t really work like that, but Joey didn’t want to hear it. To him, Sutter should be with Cheri always. Someday he will realize that Sutter is with Cheri, and always will be.
At the end of the evening Joey asked why Sutter didn’t wait and go to Heaven with Cheri, he said, “a smart dog would have waited.” I tried to explain that it doesn’t really work like that, but Joey didn’t want to hear it. To him, Sutter should be with Cheri always. Someday he will realize that Sutter is with Cheri, and always will be.
It was truly a wonderful gesture and evening. Thank you for knowing me so well and for honoring my beloved little girl, Sutter. I am thankful every day for you and your family.
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