Light and Shadow

We play in light and shadow every day of our lives.  We see and feel it as a part of where we live and who we are.  The sun dappling on our creek wouldn't be as lovely if it weren't for the shadows from the trees blocking out the sun and casting darkness against the brightness.

We learn through living that though we need the light, shadows add dimension and depth.  Sometimes we want to forget the darkness that has surrounded us, but even then, the memories of a sadness can also make us recall the better times.

This past week was an example of that.  Honey, our son's family dog had been sick for over a month.  No amount of vet care, tests or medicine could change her condition.  One night she disappeared.  The next morning we hunted all over the farm for her, but realized that wherever she was, she wasn't coming home.  She was eventually found down a bank by our creek.  Honey was buried next to all the family pets that have died and has her own headstone.

Honey was our granddaughter's dog and they fit together because both were blond.  She was a protective dog and at only three years old had out grown her puppy hood and was very loving.  She would pick up a stick and want one of us to chase her to get it out of her mouth and then throw it for her to retrieve.  She would nuzzle and loved to be petted.  She would sit where my husband was working outside but just as often visit the neighbors.  She would bark if any stranger came into the driveway or down our dead end road.

I will miss seeing her at the spring and wading in to get a drink.  I will miss her soft fur and gentle eyes.  I will miss seeing my granddaughter telling her to sit and lie down and then rewarding her with a biscuit.  We know that pets are temporary.  However the light they can bring into our lives leaves us a bit in the shadows when they go.