Dear Benny

Dear Benny,

When they told us you were sick, we could hardly believe them. Your smiling eyes, the ball in your mouth. You didn’t seem to believe it, so how could we? I wrote you this letter that night, remember? I camped out with you on the kitchen floor, and noticed how hard it is to lay in such a place. But you seemed to like it, so I joined you. I wanted you to know some things, and I didn’t want you to be alone, so I told you, and I wrote you a letter.

You are the first one I see each morning. And seeing you there is enough to know that it Will be a good day. Because you are in it. Because you are here.

Your benevolent kindness- your patience- your unconditional love. I can look into your eyes and see your love for me reflected- even when I’ve been wrong. I never even have to be right to earn it. You know each of us just as we know ourselves. Better. And still you love us.

Since before we were a family you were a part of us. You connected us in ways you may never know. We adopted you - not a pet- but family. And it was just yesterday, wasn’t it? Despite knowing that we never have enough time, we always busy ourselves into thinking we have more tomorrows. Just as we are blessed by the gift of a lifetime together we are cursed by the brevity of that time. You have been everything to us- and have asked for so little in return.

Each morning I stumble out of bed and make coffee with you at my side. Many nights I struggle to sleep and you are the last one I kiss before surrendering to sleep. You comfort and reassure me through it all and throughout the days in between. I gave you as a gift but you became a gift to me. I have my own private love for you. Our own little routine and understanding. I love you Benny. I wont ever be able to thank you enough for loving me back.