Blessing~ 1991-2008

2008 January 7
tags: ,
by Brian

We came home tonight from an overnight trip to find our oldest cat, Blessing, in distress. We rushed him to an emergency pet hospital. Two hours later, we had him put to sleep.

We buried him in our front yard.

“The Grey Warrior”

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when she brought you home, I asked
where is he?
she opened her palm, and
there you were.

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even as you fought for life,
you stared death in the face
and wrestled it away
you thrived and grew.

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not afraid to speak your mind,
or supervise visitors
top cat you were
and remained til the end.

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smart and playful, wise and
unique, you were a blessing
to us
and always will be.

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old age was upon you, but
still romped like a kitten
you beat up the others
and ruled the roost.

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your long life is over, and
as you passed, we hope
you heard our love
as our tears fell at last.

68 Responses leave one →
  1. 2008 January 7

    I don’t have any more words to express our grief right now. I know many of you have lost pets and I thank you in advance for any comments you may wish to leave.

    Love Brian and Diane

  2. 2008 January 7

    Oh I am so sorry. I have been to Diane’s, but have never visited you before. I saw your comment over at Gattina’s. What a sweet kitty Blessing was. My thoughts are with you.

  3. 2008 January 7

    Oh I’m so sorry for your loss, literally of your blessing. I’m so moved by this piece and the grief I connect with. It makes me sad recalling the death of my own pet. I wrote a piece about her, Please click below link to view, somehow my experience could help lighten your grief:

    http://jeques.wordpress.com/2007/10/29/1sts-pet/

    Here’s a link to writers island prompt this week:

    http://jeques.wordpress.com/2008/01/06/the-flickering-lights-over-the-horizon/

    I wish you well.

    ~ Jeques

  4. 2008 January 7

    So sorry to hear this sad news Brian. Such a beautiful tribute here….sure she is a blessing, but she was blessed to have you for family. Truely blessed,thank you for sharing such beautiful memories.

  5. 2008 January 7

    I am so sorry to read these bad news. You must be awfully sad and he left a big void now in your life. But he had a very good life with you and also he was lucky to get that old ! It is very hard to say good bye for ever. It will hurt for quite a while and then you will keep only the good souvenirs in your mind. I wish you a lot of courage to go over this.

  6. 2008 January 7

    So sorry. Pets are invaluable friends.

  7. 2008 January 8

    How very sweet. I came across your post in tag surfers. I did a post today, on a dog who passed away this week. It is hard to lose a pet, but it is a blessing to have them when we do and to enjoy their company. I am sorry for you loss. You did a beautiful tribute.

  8. 2008 January 8

    This is a beautiful tribute. It brought tears to my eyes. I grieve for you and with you as you mourn the passing of your precious, furry child.

  9. 2008 January 8

    This is such a beautiful tribute to such a warrior of your hearts… your pictures and words tugged my heart and I can tell that this cat was so loved… thank you for sharing him with us all… He was, and always will be, a blessing…

  10. 2008 January 8

    I saw your comment over at Gattina’s….I am so very sorry about this terrible loss….The pictures show what a darling person she was….now gone over The Rainbow Bridge….RIP!

  11. 2008 January 8

    i am so very sorry. this is a beautiful tribute for a beautiful cat.

    hugs, brian!

  12. 2008 January 8

    what a blessing she was!!! and what a union you were!!! so much love can never die.. she will remain a part of you forever… what a blessing!!!

    jodi xxoo

  13. 2008 January 8

    I’m sorry for your loss. She was obviously much loved, and I’m sure she knew it and took comfort in it.

  14. 2008 January 8

    But he did bring you so much joy and inspiration, his antics and the way he expressed his own cat love, like they all do to their humans.

    He led the best life he could and you are to thank for that. I’m sure he did thank you, too.

  15. 2008 January 8

    I´m so sorry to read that bad news. Cat´s can be the best friends and it is sad like you lost a human friend.
    Your post is a wonderful tribute to a wonderful cat.

  16. 2008 January 8

    I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. What a wonderful memorial you posted.

  17. 2008 January 8

    A beautiful tribute – a sad loss.

  18. 2008 January 8

    So sorry to hear this, may be the soul rest in peace

  19. 2008 January 8
    Paris Parfait permalink

    Sorry to hear about your precious Blessing. It seems that the time you had together was wonderful.

  20. 2008 January 8

    Ohhhhhhhh Brian I am so very, very sorry … what Blessings you were for each other! My heart goes out to you!

  21. 2008 January 8

    Thank you, each and every one for your kind and generous words. Blessing is dearly missed and our tears are flowing freely today.

    I wanted to add here, that even at the end, Blessing was fighting to live. He was an amazing and wonderful part of our family. We both held him and talked to him as he died and we told him to let go and go home. It was time for his suffering and pain to end.

    I don’t know where pets go, but wherever it is, I am sure Blessing is in charge.

  22. 2008 January 8

    What a wonderful tribute to Blessing! I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll light a candle for him in front of my Bast statue. He will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge. Much love!

  23. 2008 January 8
    Feline Frisky - Diane permalink

    Thank you, one and all for your condolences. They are greatly appreciated.

    I lost my little man last night, sent him home where there is no suffering. I am glad he is at rest.

    The house is so quiet today. No sneezing or yowling, no requests for tubby time, no one to share my tea & newspaper with, no snoring, no curled up ball of grey in a sunshine spot. No more counting to 3, only 2 live here now.

    He was my Precious Blessing, Momma’s Little Man and my boober. I cannot tell you how my heart aches for him, to have the chance to hold him just one more time.

    Brian has put words to his life so beautifully. I pray that God will give me the strength I need to accept my loss and remember him with love, always.

    Thank you,

    Diane

  24. 2008 January 8

    Brian, Diane:

    I am so sorry. I saw a light in your eyes, Diane, when you talked about your cats Sunday, and I was picturing the more recent photo on your blog where you are all on the bed together. Brian your tribute is wonderful. May all of your hearts find a gentle quiet soon.

    - Marcia

  25. 2008 January 8

    I saw your comment about Blessing at Gattina’s blog. I am so sorry for your loss, he sounds like he was a totally awesome friend & companion.

  26. 2008 January 8

    I am so very sorry. Yes I have lost pets that were more than just a pet but a part of me, a part of my family so I understand and sympathize with your loss. If he could see your tribute Blessing would be so proud. I know he knew how much you guys loved him. Blessing will be missed.

  27. 2008 January 8

    Such a poignant tale .. so well put.. sorry for your loss.. he does seem like a good friend and companion… your tribute is wonderful.

    Over the Horizon

  28. 2008 January 8

    That was a beautiful poem Brian. I am so sorry for your loss. I know
    that nothing will ever replace him. I still miss my Queenie and my faithful old dog Maggie. Just can’t seem to let go. Your photos of him were very moving.

    love you, Melanie

  29. 2008 January 8

    May you always hold Blessing in your hearts, and this is a wonderful tribute. What a precious life.

    Penelope
    http://wannabeawritersomeday.blogspot.com/2008/01/over-horizon-writers-island-edition-1.html

  30. 2008 January 8

    This was a lovely tribute to what looks like a wonderful kitty.

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I know how difficult it is to lose a furry member of the family.

  31. 2008 January 8

    Oh, I am so sorry for your loss. I know it’s very hard. I thank you for sharing this wonderful fellow with us. Peace in your hearts during this difficult time.

  32. 2008 January 8

    This was a very touching memorial to your beloved who has merely disappeared beyond the veil.

  33. 2008 January 8

    ((hugs)) to you and Diane.

    I have no words……….

  34. 2008 January 8

    oh man, im crying….what a beauty…who could have told us our pets would mean so much to us…thank you

  35. 2008 January 8
    Raj permalink

    I’m so sorry…as a cat lover myself,I can feel the pain expressed in your words.

  36. 2008 January 8

    we will miss you Blessin..we got to know you and you welcomed us with your furry..purry head butts..love and hugs to you all..madd & Carol

  37. 2008 January 8

    What a touching tribute to a beloved friend. I’ve lost some cherished feline pals of my own over the years, and it never seems to get any easier. Our family currently has two cats (both pound kitties) and I know it will be a sad day when we bid farewell to them. Wishing you and your wife comfort and peace, and sharing my own belief that there is a sunny spot in heaven where all cats will rule the roost (I think God is a cat-person, too).

  38. 2008 January 8

    It’s been a day since he left us. A hard day, full of tears and grief. It’s been a long time since I felt grief. I’d forgotten how much it hurts.

    Yet… Blessing was a strong cat, full of life and love for us. As Madd said, since she’s the only one here who ever met him, Blessing loved people. He liked to ‘butt head’ you, it’s called bunting, but he would haul off and whack you hard in the forehead.

    This was the first time for both Diane and I, to have to be with our pet and hold them as they died. It was very hard for us, we don’t think Blessing even knew we were there at the end. We didn’t want it to be this way, but he had earned our hugs and our tears. We owed him that much, for his unwavering loyalty and love for his ‘people’.

    I’m very proud that Blessing choose to make his home with us. He will always be my “Grey Warrior” and he taught me how to be a survivor.

    Farewell my friend, I am a better man for knowing you.

  39. 2008 January 8

    Oh, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m hurting for you.

    I’m glad he didn’t pass away while you were gone. Thank you for sharing him with us. He’ll live on through all who were touched by his life.

    ((((HUGS))))

  40. 2008 January 8

    No need to tell you that I feel your pain. You knew about our Junior last year.
    I am so sorry. Pets are so much a part of us.
    I popped over here to wish you and yours a Happy New Year.
    (((Brian))

  41. 2008 January 8

    We are so sorry for your less. Blessing seems like a wonderful cat who had a rich life together with you. And this is a wonderful tribute you have made, very touching. We are grateful that you shared your memories and tribute of Blessing with all of us,

  42. 2008 January 9

    Thank you again for all your comments of support and understanding. I went to all of your blogs and left a comment; if I missed anyone, I apologize.

  43. 2008 January 9

    He turned out awfully big compared to his humble beginnings!
    I love the picture of his big paws sticking out on the back of the couch.
    He looks so cuddly!
    I’m sure you will miss him terribly and you have made a beautiful tribute!
    Sorry for your loss.

  44. 2008 January 9

    What an adorable cat and a great name! I’m so sorry for your loss. I still miss my cat, Whiskers, who moved beyond over 20 years ago now.

  45. 2008 January 9

    Oh no, Brian! My own tears fall at your profound loss. Your tribute was beautiful, what a blessing. HUGS

  46. 2008 January 9

    Oh Brian, I am so very sorry, and please pass this on to Diane. What a beautiful cat, those eyes, and sounds like quite a character too. A lovely, moving tribute.

  47. 2008 January 9

    Thanks again each of you for taking the time to honor Blessing and all other pets who have passed on.

  48. 2008 January 9

    Your words and photos of sweet Blessing brought tears to my eyes. You are all in my heart.

  49. 2008 January 9
    Rebecca permalink

    I am sorry for your loss. I am scared myself, my oldest kitty 1987 has developed muscular cancer and has a cyst on his back. It continues to grow. I know the end is near. My heart felt apologies.

    Hug D for me.

  50. 2008 January 10
    mrsfox permalink

    Oh Brian, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear pet and family member. Your poem for Blessing was so moving. Blessing was the most adorable little kitten I’ve ever seen.

  51. 2008 January 10

    Thank you all for your continuing support and comments. It means the world to me to have such friends.

  52. 2008 January 10

    Hey Brian, well, I’m a dog person, and I know all dogs go to heaven. I suspect there’s a heaven for cats as well, (maybe dogs and cats share a heaven, and have actually worked things out) and your prayer/remembrance has sped Blessing on his way.

  53. 2008 January 13

    (((((((((((((((((((Brian & Diane))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

    I’m so sorry for the loss of Blessings. May God comfort your hearts. When I saw how old he was, I saw your tribute in another way: cats don’t usually live that long unless they are loved really well. You both loved well. That is a blessing to the world.

    Now I’ll go give our outside feral cat Dora a treat in honor of Blessings memory. :)

  54. 2008 January 13

    I read all your comments here and on every post. Thank you so much for sharing your memories of your beloved pets.

  55. 2008 January 13

    Thanks, Brian. I wonder if Blessing and Spikekid’s hamsters are playing a friendly game of tag in animal heaven (where all are vegans.) :)

  56. 2008 January 13

    OH I am so sorry! Blessing was such a wonderful gift for you all. I am crying with you.

  57. 2008 January 14

    I’m sorry for your loss. I know how hard it is to part with a beloved pet. Sounds like you were lucky to have eachother for such a long time.

  58. 2008 January 14

    I’m so sorry for your loss, we lost our rabbit recently . Pets are such a comfort and real companions and its so heartbreaking to have to say goodbye to them.

  59. 2008 January 14

    I can’t tell you how much of a comfort all your comments have been. Please accept my heartfelt thanks and also my condolences for all the pets you’ve lost.

    (((((((hugs)))))))

  60. 2008 January 20

    I’m so sorry about Blessing. I love you all very much and I hope that your hearts are healing well. Hugs and love to you all.

  61. 2008 January 21

    Your poem for Blessing was very moving it brought tears to my eyes.
    Brian & Diane you are in my heart.

  62. 2008 January 25

    she was so, so beautiful. i can say that i truly know of your heartbreak. the poem was so beautifully written. heartwrenching.

    i’ve had to put two dogs down and to this day i still cry over their loss. now i have three cats (frodo, miss olivia, & dharma) that rule the house. all saved, all living a life filled with love and much affection.

    you are a wonderful person! anyone who loves animals the way you do is the best in my book!

    ((rebecca))

  63. 2008 January 26

    Thanks again and again for all your continued comments.

    (((((hugs))))))

  64. 2008 February 13
    DaBich permalink

    Very late I am, with my head in my own little world here. Bless you both. Your Blessing had a wonderful life with two people who loved him as much as he loved them. Please don’t worry about replying, just letting you know I care. HUGZ!

  65. 2008 February 15

    My cat-heart-hugs to you and the rest of your family. He’s a beautiful cat.

  66. 2008 February 18

    Thanks again for all your wonderful comments.

  67. 2008 June 4

    Oh, this is the sweetest post….

    We lost a baby bulldog last year on August 15. He was just 16 weeks old and suffered from liver shunts that came back again after surgery. Poor little guy never got over 10 lbs. You can see his memorial here: http://leonidas.critters.com.

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