A Eulogy for Mr. Grumbles
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
Initially I said, “No, I don’t want another dog!” Then I came home from work and found him on my sofa. I learned so much from this dog during the past 17 years. He may be gone but the life lessons taught will live forever. He moved with me four times in Florida and twice in PA. He traveled the east coast and never complained. He never met a dog he didn’t like (except two snappy Yorkies). Mr. Grumbles tolerated all the foster dogs and would simply look at me and ask (with his eyes), “Mama, when are they going home?”
His loyalty was unmatched. When he was younger, he could bark and chase any squirrel threats that came into the yard. Snakes were never welcome either and he certainly let them know. He did not bark for the last three years! But he coughed to let me know his likes and dislikes.
He was compassionate and attentive. He knew my moods and would crawl up on my lap to snuggle as if to say, ‘Don’t cry! Everything is gonna’ be okay!’ And it usually turned out that way. We used to walk a beautiful old Native American trail that was canopied by trees but ran close to the swamp along the river in Florida. He saw the alligator before I did (it looked like a big log), and he chased it away. Yes, all 22 lbs. of him became a terrifying opponent to that large reptile. Size meant nothing!
When I fell in the slushy snow in the parking lot in Deer Run, he was watching and barked and barked to get someone’s attention. Then there was the evening that he accidently got outside and stayed out for several hours. My roomie heard this dog barking at the back door. Low and behold it was Mr. G. and he was all smiles.
I do believe that dogs have feelings for other dogs as Grumbles was truly in love with my boxer, Mercy. He used to spend time every day grooming her and keeping her face clean. (She never did a thing for him, but he didn’t care.) When she crossed that rainbow bridge, he cried with the most pitiful howls, and it broke my heart.
Now, I cry those same tears! We were together for a very long time, and I learned so much from my beloved furry friend. I am grateful that God gifted him to me all these years. He taught me all about unconditional love.
Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me all these lessons through my little dog. AMEN.