There is so little that can be said or done to comfort those who face the loss of a companion when its time to go to the bridge.  Logically we know that at the Rainbow Bridge our beloved animals will find the peace they so deserve - but at the same time it is so difficult to let them go.  The poem on this page was brought to my attention by Gene and Bandit of the FDMB...I have contacted the author and received her permission to post this wonderful work here.

Please share this with others so that these powerful words can bring some small comfort to their hearts.

From Friend to Friend
by Karen Clouston

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.

But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.

So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.

The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.

That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.

Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.

You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.

So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.

Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady cat,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young cat once again.

In Memory of Asta, Feb. 1997 by (c) Karen Clouston. This poem appears with Karen’s express permission. You can visit Karen’s Airdale Terrier Website here: http://www.worldgate.com/~dognyard/

If you'd like to download a copy of this poem to share with a friend, click here (adobe acrobat format).