Saturday, my basset hound, Gus, passed away. We have had him for 11 going on 12 years. He was 13 1/2 years old. He was going down hill and fast. He just seemed to get sicker and sicker every day. The last time Marcus and I went out to see my folks, Gus whimpered because he couldn't get on the love seat. He seemed to be always getting sick, and he just looked tired and sad. I knew it was going to be soon that I would have to say goodbye.
I have a lot of memories with Mr. Gus Gus. He was a wonderful friend and companion throughout my childhood. I got him as a gift from my parents in the 7th grade. He was almost three years old. Dark brown face eventually turned grey. He would play hide and seek and even tag in our back yard. He always greeted me at the door when I came home. Even when I moved away from home, he was always happy to see me. He was even one of the first to welcome Marcus into the family.
As I write this, I keep thinking of more and more memories of Gus. Last night I had a conversation about animals going to heaven. Marcus comforted me with some knowledge he possessed. He told me that one time, a woman lost a close pet and was upset. She went to talk to the prophet Joeseph Smith about it. He informed her that every creature that serves its purpose will live with our Heavenly Father. I know that Gus is up there. Probably just over the "Rainbow Bridge."
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
A friend sent me this poem and it brought me a lot of comfort. Another thing that brought me comfort was Luke 12:6, here it states that of the sparrows are sold. "not one of them is forgotten before the Lord."
Gus was never forgotten. Heavenly Father knows all of his creatures, great or small. For he created them all.
I love you Gus Gus. You were a very special friend and companion. I am still shedding tears as I write this blog. You will never be forgotten old pal. May you rest in peace and I hope you are just as loud and excited when you greet me on the other side of that "Rainbow Bridge." I will be looking forward to seeing you there.
I will love you forever Gus Gus
Your Friend,
Karin
