About Brownie
That's Brownie in the picture.He passed away earlier today.
I had him for twenty years. He was born feral, but quickly learned to like being petted and being held.
He had a stroke Thursday morning, and another the same afternoon. He's been in ER until today.
Nerissa and I are in a state of shock right now. I know this is for the best, and I know Brownie is at peace, but it's still a challenge to let go.
I wish I had something wise to say here. I realize death is part of the life experience, but right now it feels like the part that sucks.
I'm focusing on the joy Brownie gave me for twenty years -- first with my late ex-wife Marian and then with Nerissa over the last few years -- and I am grateful this loving Maine Coon came into our lives.
Thank you for all your loving thoughts.
Ao Akua,
Joe
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posted by Joe Vitale | 6:38 PM
72 Comments:
Joe and Nerissa...our thoughts continue to go out to you both for your loss. May both of you find comfort in the memories you hold.
- Jeff
Aww. Sorry to hear about your kitty. I'd hate to lose either of my boys Tiziano and Torre and having lost one to Catnipping Green a while back. Twas very sad.
Best wishes to you both.
Mreow!
-Marc
Beautiful cat, Joe. My heart goes out to you and Nerissa.
Rita
Hey Joe...
You had a tough time, lately. I would like to offer my comfort and love to you. Nothing I can say will take away the emotion you feel, right now, but just know you are being surrounded by loving angel thoughts of concern and compassion. We can never really be a part from anything we have been a part of, so Brownie's energy will always be carried in you, and yours in Brownie. We are ONE with all that is. I wish I could make it easier for you, but if it helps, let your dear friends carry the yoke for a while. We're here for you. Love and hugs....Jodi Mc
JOE,
Hugs to you and your wife. My cats mean the world to me and I share your sorrow.
God Bless
Dear Joe,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have no children, but I have had many cats and some dogs in my life. They become a part of your family and when they pass on it is very painful. You had a wonderful companion and friend in your life for 20 years! Wow! That is a very long time for a cat to live. Brownie was meant to be with you and I am sure you gave him the best life ever! I love his picture, it looks like he is posing and very happy! I know this is a very tough time, but I know that over time you will think of him and you will just smile! My prayers and very good thoughts are there for you and your family.
Love, Teri
My heart goes out to you, Joe. I had my cat Pandora for 19 years. After she died, it took a year and a half before I could get another cat, and now I have two: Charlie and Mike. They drive me crazy but I can't imagine life without them. Please know you and your wife are in my thoughts and prayers. Also, thanks for everything you do in the world.
I'm so sorry for your grievous loss. The 20 years must have gone by so quickly. Brownie was a dearly loved cat and lucky to have found his human guardians. Peace to all of you.
Brownie was gorgeous! I know how difficult letting go of our companions can be, and only time allows our hearts to heal. But maybe you can focus a bit on how fortunate Brownie was to have come into your life. Sadly there are too many wonderful animals that will never know the joy of living with people who allow them to share their truly unconditional love with them. My sincerest condolences on the physical loss of Brownie, but my most heartfelt universal gratitude that you got to be in each other's life at all, there in is the miracle of life ;o)
Sorry for your loss Joe..
Sometimes you dont need to say anything wise Joe..
life deals some blows at times and its ok to feel down
like the bible says " There is a time for Everything under the burning sun "
Watch this video.. hope you find some comfort in it..
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ji2rLXr3cEU
Be Blessed Bro!
Hi Joe,
I am sorry for your troubles...this is an Irish condolence... I have always liked it. But I want to tell you that I had a beautiful Siamese that was ill, almost from the get go. Simon was a special cat also and was very loving with me. He had an immune system disorder that caused him to sneeze and muscous would fly, he also had horrible breath and loved to lie on me in bed, nose to nose purring and of course sharing his breath with me. He also had a stroke. His whole left side was affected. I took him to the vet and in the car I told him that he didn't need to hold on for me...that he could pass on the way in the car, that I would be okay with that. He didn't and he gave me a greater gift. At the vet's I watched as they injected him with the "stuff" (on his good side!) and he struggled and then, I watched him look at me and DECIDE that he did not need to do this anymore and in a split second he decided to leave. I asked the vet if cats left faster than dogs (another story) and the vet said NO they took longer. Simon made the choice to leave his body and I knew then and there that we all have that choice. I still dream of him on occasion and in my "safe meditation spot" he always comes to visit along with Fergie,my retriever, the other story. I was blessed! As you were! We are blessed with animals and their love.
Blessing to you for all that you do!
Linda adsetts
www.designyourlifeinc.com
Sorry for your loss. I cried when we had to have our dog put down this past year. She was very loving dog. A good pet truly becomes part of the family. We still have our cat Taffy.
David Stewart
My three kitties are welcoming Brownie to Catnip Heaven with loving headbutts.
Brownie is gonna like paling around with my rough tough boys Rambo & Tweedles. Mantha will move to a higher cloud to avoid them, she tends to be a diva like that.
All our love and deepest joy for all the critters & humans of the Vitale zoo. XOXO
Princess Samantha Kitten Video
Hi Joe,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family over the loss of Brownie. He was a companion, friend and family member for 20 years! I can see by his picture that you gave him a wonderful life! You were meant to be together! I know right now it is very painful, but over time when you think of him, you won't cry, but you will smile and maybe even laugh about something funny that he did. I have had many cats and a few dogs in my life and they have brought such joy to me. I don't have children so my pets are my children. I have 2 cats and a dog that I sometimes refer to as "the sunshine committee"! Because that is what the do for me, they bring sunshine and smiles!
I am sending warm and loving thoughts your way! I am so happy for Brownie that he had such a good and loving friend in you!
Love, Teri
So sorry to hear the news about your dear Brownie!! But, WOW!! 20 WONDERFUL years with Brownie, and he with you!!! Yes, it's hard to let go -- our animal friends leave such large holes in our hearts when they leave. I lost 2 of my dogs on the same day in 2005 after 15 years--both rescues, both dearly loved and still sorely missed! However--they did pay me a visit 4-6 weeks after they left...it helped a bit. My heart is with you, your loved ones and Brownie.
Joe,
My heart goes out to you! No matter how much we know about the spiritual side of life and death, it is still very hard to lose a member of the family, whether that member walks on two legs or four.
Having recently lost several of my 4 legged family members, I hope you can feel the huge, warm cyber hug I'm sending your way.
Niye Wowahwa Wacin (Lakota for "wishing you peace")
Linda P.
Hi Joe,
My heart goes out to you and Nerissa. The pain of losing a furry little family member can seem unbearable. I can only imagine how much Brownie loved being a part of your life.
I rescued my dog Beau 4 years ago and I can’t even imagine life without him. I’m sure Brownie is looking in on you, sending you love, and hoping that you will feel nothing but peace as you remember all of the good times you’ve shared.
I hope you will find comfort and peace through all of the love that is being sent your way from all of the people you have helped. I am one of many.
With love and peace,
Teri Rose & Beau
from
www.GrabTheWheelPodcast.com
Joe,
My heart goes out to you! No matter how much we know about the spiritual side of life and death, its still hard to lose a family member whether that member walks on 2 legs or 4.
Having recently lost several of my 4 legged family members, I hope this big, warm cyber hug reaches you!
Niye Wowahwa Wacin (Lakota for "wishing you peace")
Linda P
God bless you Joe and Nerissa. God bless Brownie. Peace be with you all.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Anne
I am very sad to hear about Brownie. Eventhough we all know that death is part of life for all living creatures, it's always hard to face. I lost my 15 year old dog 2 years ago, and it took me one year to get over it. Thoughts of his birthday, places we had been to together, our walking routine, etc... will never be forgotten, but time is good and it does dull the grief to some extent. I'm thinking about you and your wife and asking the Infinite Intelligence in it's wisdom to dull your pain too...eventually. Like you, I am grateful for the time I got to spend with a loving animal.
Joe,
I am sorry to hear about your loss. I wish your family and yourself the best during these dificult times.
Alexander Morentin
www.myfitlife.net
Joe,
I'm sorry about Brownie. Our sweet animals are SO missed when they leave us! You and Nerissa already know to go to the feelings honestly and not stay in negative space. I read your earlier post about your health, and applaud your wisdom in not 'going public' until you had confirmation of your health. This wasn't about you letting us be an audience for your struggle and victory over three months, but about you finding your way to health, and you knew it! I'm loving that your books are reawakening the bold spirit I used to have and am now reviving: many thanks for that gift.
Laraine
I'm so sorry to hear about Brownie. Peace to you both. Love, Lisa
Joe,
I do have to admit that cats are not my favorite animals but loosing a close friend like your animal is very hard to go throught. I'm sorry for you and your wife.
I'm sending you lots of love, hugs and good thoughts.
Take care
Serge
Hey Joe,
What a pretty kitty Brownie is...
He will always be just as beautiful
as your loving memory holds him.
It is hard, grief. But you are so
right "The best way to heal is to feel".
Feel on, my friend, and thank you for sharing so much of the real you with us.
Your willingness to be so open and
vulnerable with your readers is
part of what makes "Mr. Fire" so
endearing.
Be well, and thank you again
for allowing us to grieve your
loss with you.
I'm sorry. I love you. Please forgive me. Thank You
Karen
Death of the physical body is always sad for those who loved that body and I think there is something special about Man Goon cats because there is one where I work and he meets me at the gate every morning and shares my chair if the boss doesn't put him out. Your Brownie is a brown version of the grey one called Smokey at work. I hope you find joy in the memories of 20 years of love you shared with this beautiful soul. There is a book by Harold Klemp called "Animals are Soul Too" that is an inspirational read where pets are concerned. I'm sure you will meet your Brownie again in one form or another. Take care
So sorry for your loss Joe and Narissa. Our love for animals is what makes life great. Live in peace and remember the joy that Brownie brought into your life. God Bless.
- Tim
Joe & Nerissa.. How terribly sad about your beloved Brownie. I took one look at him and cried so hard the whole front of me was wet. I know that kind of pain...I lost my Pepper 2 years ago on the fifth of May. She was my friend. She never told anybody any of the secrets I had told her over the very brief 14 years I had the privelige of knowing her. Unfortunately, life is a balance... as deep as your love, so deep is your sorrow. Be comforted in knowing Brownie waits for you at Rainbow Bridge to join you when you are ready for the next world.
Peace,
Donna
Joe,
I am so sorry for your loss. Brownie was a beautiful kitty.
Brownie's love and energy will always be around and you will be re-connected one day. God Bless.
Ed
www.FancyMutt.com
Hi Joe,
There must be something about Maine Coons--I had mine for twenty years as well. She passed on two years ago and I still get misty thinking about her. I'm so sorry for your loss and hope you can focus on the great years you had together. Not many cats get to live such long lives--or with such loving owners!
And don't forget to support your local animal rescue group so other cats can have good homes too!
Warm wishes,
Stephanie Chandler
The saddest thing about our pets is that we often outlive many of them. But what a wonderful cat he must have been. Having had Maine Coons myself, there is nothing quite like them in the cat world. Feel free to post more photos of that wonderful feline if you have some.
Joe,
My heart surely goes out to you. Earlier this year my FlopCat, who was 18, got to the time in his life when he was ready to move on. His body was shutting down and it was time. I know the pain you feel after having such a loving companion for all these years. May Brownie visit you frequently, just like my FlopCat pops in now and then. The love is eternal.
Animals are such wonderful companions. They don't talk back, or make demands...they are God's creatures that give us comfort and joy. Know that Brownie is happy andlooks down on you and yours. The beautiful reflections, (memories) of their love and devotion to us will last our life time. Rest well Brownie, rest well.
Sorry to hear about your loss. My heart goes out to you both. A few months ago I lost my cat Smokey so I know how hard it is to lose a beloved animal.
I wish you the best
Sally
At least this time, you didn't try to push a book, or a movie. You first email was rather facetious and shallow in its attempt to promote nitro marketing, etc. Sorry for your loss. I have a pet too that means a lot to me.
I'm so sorry for your loss, Joe. My little 'co-producer' Heidi passed last year at 17 after a prolonged illness. I'm very blessed to have known her amazing spirit, and so lucky to still see her daily in the faces of the little four-legged "junior engineers" she left behind in my studio.
If you always remember their love and dedication, they're never far away.
I am sorry for your loss, Joe and Nerissa. I think that Jerry and Esther Hicks have made me understand death more than anyone else. It is just a withdrawing of attention from the physical back to the non-physical. The energy is still there in a different form. I have lost several animals over the years and each one is still special in my heart.
Hi Joe and Nerissa,
Joe for every deep breath you take smile to yourself and think of Brownie in his favourite spot
and on the outgoing breath breeaath out the sadness and grief
For there is no greater friend than the one that doesn't judge, one that is there for you unconditionally...be that friend animal or man
Love and Light
Victoria
My condolences in the loss of Brownie. May you find comfort in the memories of 20 years together.
You don't know me but I enjoy your general message. I just wanted to pass on my condolences. I know how difficult it is to lose a family member (even a furry one). Take care
Darren
Hello Joe,
our hearts are with you.
Big hug from Austria/Europe.
Stefan and the cats Humphrey and Lady
Joe and Nerissa,
Ernest O'Dell from Blanco, Texas, here.
My heart goes out to you both. I love cats. Don't have any right now, but I have my old trustworthy dog. He's been with me for 8 years. He's getting old, too, and I know I'm going to miss him when he goes.
You know, Joe, you said something that comforted me in a recent email when I wrote you about my dad's passing. You said, "Blue funks go easily.
This too will pass.
:)
joe"
I've gotten out of the "blue funk" and am back to attracting some great things in my life.
You've been a tremendous blessing in my life. I don't know how I can ever repay you, but I'll think of something. :)
I bought your latest book at Amazon, "Hypnotic Writing". It is hard to put down once you start reading it.
But, know this... you're at the top of my prayer list everyday. I hope to see you again soon.
Ernest O'Dell
Blanco, TX.
P.S. Give me a call sometime, when you're not busy and you just have some time to chat. Jessie says "Hi", too. You were such a blessing to him recently when you spent some time with him on his book. He's on his way to doing great things because of your help.
Hi Joe
Sorry to hear about your loss. Sending you love, light and peace at this time.
Amanda
How to heal your heart with your pets loving memories
Dear Joe - my heart broke in the same way. I didn't know HOW I was going to move on. My dog Wolfie had terrible seizures in the middle of the night last week. As I held him I felt my heart break and thought he would never be in my home again.
I didn’t expect it and I didn’t know what to do.
One of my first comforting thoughts was that Wolfie had lived many great years on borrowed time. 9 years ago I rescued Wolfie from “the pound” where he was scheduled for termination. I didn’t want another dog. But I took him in. My Vet checked him and found deadly heartworms. In my mind I set a limit of $500 for this dog I didn’t want any way. The vet quoted $500 to TRY the cure and warned it might kill him instead. It was Wolfe’s lucky day. And I think he knew it!
Every day since his recovery I can tell Wolfie is grateful. The way he looks at me with total love and appreciation in his eyes. The way he lifts his paws when he prances on the deck. The way he sighs as he relaxes on a soft chair.
He has a song with the "Ode to Joy" melody, "Joyful, Joyful, Wolf-pet's Joyful"
Rare thinking people like you already know that there is great meaning in what has happened. You and your work have been a great teacher to me. Every day I practice happiness and the thought came to me then: “How can I be happy now?” “Where is the joy my dog brings me?”
Wolfie made a recovery. And my heart has learned a valuable lesson. I'm now very focused on the here and now. I am looking at every day as "the best day of my life." I’m not putting off taking Wolfie on that walk in the park until another day. I’m taking it now breathing in the fresh grass now . Feeling the sunshine and appreciating the joy of the moment.
With my heart full of those thoughts, on the day Wolfie does die, it might break again, but I’ll have plenty of wonderful memories and appreciation of the fullest joy we shared to act as salve and that is how I will heal.
Wana see wolfie? I have a picture of Me Wolfie & Snoop on my travel web site http://www.discount-all-inclusive.com/Agents.aspx?AgentID=1
Peace to you Joe – I hope your loving memories bring you joy and happiness.
Joe & Nerissa
Think of how blessed you are to have been his chosen 'parents' for so many years. You are so very lucky!
That little one was gorgeous.
Dear Dr. Joe.
Our pets are family, and the pain of their loss can be almost unbearable. It's made worse by unknowing people who think (and say) "Get over it. It's just an animal."
While I know it can never take the place of your beloved Brownie, I would like to offer to do a portrait of him so that you can remember him at his best. I would not charge you, but I would ask for a testimonial from you.
I don't mean to be crass. Believe me, I know what it's like to lose one of my fur-kids, and I don't want to cause you more pain. I also know that it really helps to have a visual memory to help recall the good times, once that pain has eased somewhat.
If you are at all interested, you can see my work on my site ( www.bevhanna.com ) If I have offended you, I apologize. My heart goes out to you in this time of loss.
Bev Hanna, S.C.A.
www.bevhanna.com
Words of love and sympathy go to you from me and my two four leggeds - Patches and Millenia. It's times like this that remind us of what is truly significant. Love is what it is all about. You start there and end there always. That's what makes you so special.. It's quite hypnotic!
Oh, Joe.
I know exactly what tears must be flowinging in Wimberly right now. When your shared your kitty paradise with me, what I really noticed was how much they all meant to you--each one of those kitties. The stray ferrel cat you pointed out to me that would come around the nets in your backyard and rarely let anyone near him--this is not the same kitty is it? I know you were really proud of that guy. Anyway, Nerrisa and Joe, I love you and your cats love you and so, too, about 50 million other people. Cry it out and get back to writing more books and making more videos. UR LUVD, Stage Hypnotist Simone, Las Vegas, Nevada
My condolences to you and Nerissa.
Brownie sounded like a beautiful animal. I am glad you got to share so many years together.
We have three kitties in our household, Mocha, Lady and Jinxy and sometimes i just catch myself in awe at the beauty of these creatures.
I was thinking the other day - I know this beautiful kitty will not be here forever (which is a strange thought to think I guess) and it makes my heart sink but it makes me enjoy the moment even more.
I hope you enjoyed all the special moments w/Brownie and will cherish those precious memories.
Doug
Joe and Nerissa,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I know exactly what you're going through and there are no words at all that can make it any better.
The website where I found refuge was www.petloss.com - use it and be with others who are grieving deeply.
Continue to remember Brownie's finest moments and all the joy you shared.
-Terrie
Dearest Joe and Nerissa,
Thank you for sharing your whole life, thank you for being authentically you and for always being love. When you weep, we all weep. When a little kitty is for so long a part of your everyday world it is hard to go to the next day without him. Know that he is lovingly embraced by the Divine and had a prefectly wonderful life with you and Nerissa. You took such good care of him, see how long he stayed...as long as he could. :) May you find peace and the warmth of all of us embracing you as you grow through these days of change. I'm Sorry. Please forgive me. I love you. Thank you. We are all connected, we are all one. We were born to love and be loved. Love, peace and blessings, Donna
Hi Joe and Nerissa,
I started to write this note yesterday and just could not find enough words for you - My heart "breaks" for you and Brownie. We had a cat that we had to put to sleep about 6 months ago - we had her for about 12 years. She had a personality all her own and we swore she talked to us! Appropriately named Miss Cat because that's just what she was (in addition to being pure white with huge blue eyes) - just gorgeous and loving, she was so hard to let go. Unfortunately she had cancer and would not get any better, was continually losing weight and not able to eat much of anything, that we had to agree with the vet and let her go. Those that are not "animal lovers" do not understand how quickly our pets become members of our family and how hard it is to let go when the time comes.
I wish you peace and happiness and great memories of the years you had with Brownie. A beutiful cat Brownie was and obviously had a beatiful spirit as well.
All the best,
Carol Deckert
Virtual Marketing/Networking Coach
Dear Joe and Nerissa,
May you feel the loving, healing thoughts being sent your way.
You are truly blessed with knowing the love of such a special friend.
Fran
DEAREST JOE & NERRA,
THE SORROW YOU FEEL IS FROM THE HEART & REAL AS ANYTHING YOU CAN IMAGINE,LOVE & APPRIECIATION FOR LIFE COMES FROM OUR CREATOR.
A VERY DEAR MAN CAME TO VISIT MY GRANDMOTHER,AGNES GHOSTKEEPER,YOU MAY HAVE HEARD OF THIS GREAT MAN, CHIEF DAN GEORGE,HERE WHAT HE HAD TO SAY ABOUT ANIMALS,AND I KNOW YOU TALKED TO BROWNIE,YOUR THOUGHTS & LOVE FOR BROWNIE WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU.
HUMBLY YOUR,
HENRY WALLACE HEGLAND
www.thedreamcatcher.ca
IF YOU TALK TO ANIMALS THEY WILL TALK WITH YOU AND YOU WILL KNOW EACH OTHER.
IF YOU DO NOT TALK TO THEM YOU WILL NOT KNOW THEM AND WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW YOU WILL FEAR.
WHAT ONE FEARS ONE DESTROYS.
-CHIEF DAN GEORGE
So sorry to hear about the loss of Brownie. We send you and Nerissa lots of love that hopefully will provide some comfort during your time of mourning.
- Angie & Family
I'm sorry about your loss. Brownie has gone to the stars, but I'm sure he'll continue living in your hearts and in your memories. It's good to have loved.
- Britt
Joe-
I am so sorry for your loss. I totally feel your pain. I just want to cry for you, especially when I saw the picture of your gorgeous cat. I also know what its like to lose a pet; someone who is definitely a part of your family. Just know that Brownie will always be with you and your family, much like Harley is still with me after 3 1/2 years.
May you and Nerissa have peace!!!
Wendi
Joe and Nerissa,
This is an awesome poem to help you transition with Brownie's transition.
I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her sails to
the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength
and I stand and watch her until at length she
hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky
come down to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says:
"There! She's gone."
Gone where! Gone from my sight--that is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side, and just as able to
bear her load of living freight to the place of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her;
and just at the moment when someone at my side says,
"There! She's gone,"
there are other eyes watching her coming, and other
voices ready to take up the glad shout,
"There she comes!"
And that is dying.
-Author Unknown-
Namaste,
Mysti
Joe
I am new to your site and I understand and share your loss. I have 4 cats, 4 dogs, and 6 grandchildren! Sometimes my 4 legged relatives give me more love and understanding than the 2 legged ones! But we all share the same denominator - LOVE!
As we say here in Hawaii
A Hui Hou! Until we meet again!
Blessings
Valarie
My heart goes out to you and Nerissa. I lost my two Siamese, who I had for 20 years and 21 years. No matter how old they get or how inevitable the end seems, it still hurt and leaves an empty place in your life. Brownie was a beautiful cat, and he is now at peace. You will always have your loving memories of him.
Joe and Nerissa,
You have lost a dear member of the family to the glory beyond. But, alas you can take this challenge as you have taught us all and turn it into positive.
It's a beautiful thing. I send you my love and thoughts of peace and serenity.
Along with some Ho'Oponopono. Maybe my meditations will allow you to feel the joy as you are reminded of all the funny days, all the silly antics and the mischievous things that Brownie spent his time doing.
Have a blessed evening.
Tonya
Joe & Nerissa,
What a beautiful kitty! And it's not just her markings, but she is beaming with Love! She looks very Loved and Happy! :) What more is there than that in life?
I'm sorry for your loss, you guys.
May the great memories you created with Brownie stay only a thought away.
Blessings to you both, and to Brownie.
Much Light,
Nancy
When my son was three, he snatched a tiny kitten from the jaws of death...literally. The kitten was in a German Shepherd's mouth. My baby boy slapped the dog and took the kitten. He brought it home and said "This is my cat, because he loves me."
Boy, was he right. "Tommy" worshiped the ground my son walked on. For 18 years, that cat lived to give love to my son. I've always had pets, but I've never seen that level of devotion before.
Sadly, Tommy passed away last Wednesday. My son is dealing with it by remembering all those years of unconditional love.
May the memories of Brownie's love make you smile through your tears.
Thanks to The Work of Byron Katie, my feelings about death and dying have dramatically changed. If you are not aware of The Work, and would like to find some grief relief, along with a feeling of profound peace, check it out. http://www.TheWork.com
I finished your Attractor Factor book last night and decided to visit your blog this morning. I read your post about your beloved pet -- this may help. When our sheltie died several years ago we (my daughter and I) were holding him when we passed. It was a horrific moment, but I realized I couldn't lose it because my daughter was there and she needed me to be strong. At the moment his life energy left his body I realized something amazing -- that part of me was holding him beyond the veil, that he left this material world in my arms to be in my arms in that other world. I didn't leave him, and he hadn't left me. We are all one. -- Silver RavenWolf
Sorry for your loss.....pets are with us for more hours than probably anybody else. Its hard to let that comfort of their presence go.
I, too, am dealing with death this week. My aunt, who I wish could be summed up in one fabulous sentence, but she can't. Even though we knew she was dying, it didn't make the passing any easier, which was a surprise to me. What I found is its like bracing for an accident that you know is coming.....no mattter how hard you brace for the impact, it will hit and it will hit hard.
So here is a part of my aunt that I will share. Its the poem she shared with me about her passing.....perhaps you have heard of it....
Do not stantd over my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints of snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken on the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there. I did not die.
My beloved aunt, Barbara Tarbell Mcbride....
Dear Joe,
I watch The Secret several times a week on my iPod as I work out or drive (okay then I am just listening) and have been so impressed with your presentation style. I like the straight forward, no nonsense, say-it-like-it-is approach and finally, today had a few extra minutes to visit your website and order some of your stuff. I ordered the M2S programs, but would really like those as downloads for the iPod since I rarely have time to just sit and listen at my desk. I also ordered the video The Missing Secret, as I can put that on the iPod. I am looking forward to these and enjoyed the You Tube presentation on your blog. It was there that I read about Brownie.
I was touched that you would devote a page as a tribute to a cat. As founder of the world’s largest accredited sanctuary for big cats, where Ringling retires all of their tigers (re: PT Barnum), I have an affinity for our feline friends. As I was pouring over your site I was thinking it would be wonderful to have you do a 5-10 minute podcast about our connection to the big cats and each other so that I could send it out to our 57,000 supporters. I sent out a link to them when The Secret came out and again when the Science of Getting Rich came out, but felt that if some of our supporters could see someone like you speaking about the cats that they may take more interest in creating better lives for themselves when they see how it affects the animals they love. I was wondering what your attitude toward cats might be when I stumbled upon your heart felt words about not knowing how to find the good in losing a friend like Brownie.
Twenty years is a good long life for a cat, but that doesn’t make it much easier on this side of the fence, when you are wondering why it still hurts. Perhaps it was Brownie who whispered in my ear today to come visit your site. Cats find me to be a pretty good listener. It has been the whispers of cats living and gone that have inspired me to devote my life to demonstrating to people that we are all connected. I believe that when people realize that their actions and choices have such a profound effect on the animals, they may begin to see that those same actions and choices have an impact on all of us because we are all ONE.
We provide a permanent retirement home to 133 lions, tigers, leopards, bobcats and many other big cats who have been abandoned and abused, but the real change that has come about in this effort is seen in the people who visit. I often hear visitors say, “I looked into that cat’s eyes and I saw God!” I looked into Brownie’s eyes on your blog and saw that same sparkle of amused awareness. The Native American Indians and the South Amerindians refer to cats as “the little people.” There aren’t any coincidences and I am sure that Brownie’s life has not only been a wonderful experience for you, but will be the Cat-alyst for even more remarkable change.
For the cats,
Carole Baskin, CEO of Big Cat Rescue
an Educational Sanctuary home
to more than 100 big cats
12802 Easy Street Tampa, FL 33625
813.493.4564 fax 885.4457
http://www.BigCatRescue.org MakeADifference@BigCatRescue.org
So sorry to hear about your loss. I know how cats are so much a part of the family. My 2 are our children most certainly. May Brownie's love live on in your hearts. Much healing to you...
I am so sorry. I am a cat lover too, and I know how much this hurts. My old cat is 20. He is still well but every day I wonder how much longer he will be here.
Best thoughts,
June Campbell
Joe and Nerissa...my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss. I have lost many, many four legged friends over the years and understand how you feel. Perhaps it would help if you remember that spirit is eternal and Brownie will be there to meet you on the other side. And while you are still on this earth plane...her spirit and energy is with you. Love is eternal.
Blessings,
Jackie
Joe and Nerissa-
I lost my cat Keisha on 1.3.06. She was with me for 20 years as well. Two years before, I lost Musi at age 18. I understand how it feels to have a loyal companion for two decades leave so suddenly. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
-Jennifer
My condolences on the loss of your beautiful kitty/longtime companion. I believe that the bright spot in a pet's death is that it opens a space for another homeless pet who is now waiting in a shelter to be taken to his/her forever home.
Lisa
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