I learned the meaning of unconditional love from a Golden Retriever named Jake. He belonged to my younger sister who lived several hours away from me.
Twice a year I drove to the Bay Area to visit. The evenings held special meaning because Jake would always seek my company. He would sit upright facing me when I retired to the couch.
While lovingly gazing into my eyes, I would massage his long, soft floppy ears. Jake’s eyes would begin to glaze over in a trance like state.
As I continued to pet him, his body increasingly relaxed. Ever so slowly, he lowered himself to the floor. Eventually laying at my feet in deep slumber.
On the other hand, I ended up hunched over my knees, stretching to reach Jake’s head. Though this position felt less than ideal, the nurturing, supportive connection between us outweighed ANY physical discomfort on my part.
Near Jake’s 13th birthday, I sensed he would soon retire to doggy heaven. Arthritis had begun to affect his abilities. Upon nightfall, we began our usual communal session. Even though I tried to gently stroke his beautiful fur, he struggled to stay in one place. I forced myself to stop and guided him to a favorite bed pillow.
There, he laid down on his side and fell into a restless sleep. I lightly kissed my best friend’s nose and sadly walked away.
The next morning called for my departure. Jake loved the early hours of the day throughout his life. He escorted me to the front door. With an energetic tail swooshing back and forth, I stooped down, tenderly holding his beautiful head in my hands. Looking into those bountiful brown eyes, I thanked him for teaching me the wonderment of unconditional love.
After exchanging sorrowful goodbyes, the time for visiting ended. I hastily drove away in tears knowing my great teacher of all things good would soon pass.
Not long after, my sister sent me Jake’s collar. This gift is on display for all to see; a symbol of what is purely divine, of what is essential to a life worth living! Thank you!
Otter Dog
