An Eulogy for Alfie

My first post is dedicated to Alfie. She passed away on Sep 2, 2008. My heart goes out to cousin Shirley (Alfie's mom). Though Alfie was mischievous at times, then again which dog isn't, but she was always generous with love; evidently by her constant wet licks on anyone's face. She was a spectacular jack russell and an even more spectacular dog. So full of life, intelligent, and affectionate. She was also a certified volunteer Search and Rescue dog with the Singapore Civil Defence Force earlier this year. Losing her was really hard for all of us, family and friends. I pray that Shirley will find strength to overcome the loss...

A Parting Prayer

Dear Lord,
Please open your gates and call St. Francis
to come escort this beloved companion
across the Rainbow Bridge.

Assign her to a place of honor,
for she has been a faithful servant
and has always done her best to please me.

Grant me the strength not to dwell on my loss.
Help me remember the details of her life
with the love she has shown me.
And grant me the courage to honor her
by sharing those memories with others.

Let her remember me as well
and let her know that I will always love her.
And when it's my time to pass over into your paradise,
please allow her to accompany those who will bring me home.

Thank you, Lord,
for the gift of her companionship
and for the time we've had together.

And thank you, Lord,
for granting me the strength
to give her to you now.

Amen.

~ Brandy Duckworth