Sunday, January 1, 2012

Someone to Aspire to Be

My dogs have given me the opportunity to meet and mingle with amazing people who I would have never found if it is wasn't for them. The first time that I visited the dog park was a mistake. I was at the park with family and we decided to take a walk. My sister had gotten a dog a month before and we took him with us. We stumbled upon the dog park and were in awe at all the big, small, black, white, brown, etc. that we saw whirling around us. I can honestly say that I never knew that such a place existed right next to my home. Several months later, when little Simba joined our family, we began going to the dog park every single day. There we established our little "dog park crew". A fistful of the most opinionated, fiery and intelligent people welcomed me into their world and gave me the chance to learn from them.
One particular woman was like the den mother of the group. She was 88 years old and always full of spirit. She gave me the best advice "don't take any shit" and she actually saw who I was. She was a pure soul. Through rain and shine she was at the dog park with her friendly and lovable Vizsla. She was always looking at the bright side of things and making us laugh with her strong personality and attitude. Everybody loved her.

She passed away New Years Eve from lung cancer. The cancer came fast and she refused treatment. She said that she did not have a single regret in her life and I am still in awe of her courage. I can only hope that I will have an ounce of that exquisite spirit and love that she displayed to the world.

You will be missed.

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