Emotional Turmoil

[Kevin G. Farrell]

Hello All,

   I grew up with dogs, cats, horses, chickens, cows, pigs, etc. We have always had animals around in my family. Most of the time dogs and cats only, but we could never be sure what was going to show up.

   However, I never had a pet that I felt really connected to. And over the years I would hear people talk about there dog or cat passing away and, while I would say all of the right words, I had no real comprehension or empathy. There was the part inside that would be going on about "It's only a dog/cat. What the heck is the big deal? Get over this."

   Then a few years ago Mia showed up in my life. A black Chesapeake Bay retriever, sub set of Black Lab. And now I get it. When I am down she helps me up, and when I am up she helps me higher. I never thought that I would ever fall down laugh because of the antics of a pet. Surprise!

   I say all this because I just got off the phone with one of the guys that I sponsor. He just had to put down his dog of 14 years. And I finally understand why that is such a hard thing. So I am going to his house now and I will say, and actually have understanding and empathy to go with these words, all the right things.

   I just thought I would share that little snap shot of my life with you all. It shows that when we stop using and practice a ptogram of recovery in our lives that wonderous things can happen.

   I am,

Gratefully Yours,

Kevin