The Simple Life

One of Bama's vets posted some heartfelt comments about Bama. I thought it was interesting that he mentioned her appreciation of the simple things in life. I had the same thought about Bama this weekend. When she was well, she found great joy in burying under the covers and snuggling next to me at night. When she was injured, she enjoyed lying in a soft crate on the bed beside me as I patted and cooed to her. She enjoyed barking at the neighborhood dogs as wrapped like a mummy in bandages, she sat in her stroller like royalty. She enjoyed lying in the big chair, watching life go on around her. Perhaps she enjoyed these simple things because for the first six months of her life she knew only neglect, hunger, and abuse. Or maybe Bama enjoyed these simple things simply because that is the way of dogs. You might be one of the many people with fibromyalgia and other painful conditions that are finding their way to this page. If so, perhaps it will help you, as it has me, to think about all the simple things we have in our lives that could bring us joy, despite the pain, if we choose to focus on them.

Another interesting comment by her vet was her trusting nature. The vets frequently commented about how she let them treat her without complaint, as though she knew they were trying to help. When Bama first came into my life, she was not that way. Even the littlest noise startled her, and she was terrified of everybody and everything. It even took awhile for her to be comfortable with Dad and the other dogs. I don't know why she was immediately comfortable with me, except that she somehow sensed that we were meant to be together. Truly, it is remarkable how a little dog could take the risk trust people again--even people who were causing her pain as they worked so hard to help her. Forgiving mankind is not always easy for people or animals, but doing so allowed Bama to experience joy in her simple life.

I'm going to post Dr. McNeel's comments here. I'm afraid they will be missed as a link on the home page. I am grateful to him for adding to Bama's legacy:

Allan McNeel said...
As a member of Bama's medical team, I wanted to reflect on Bama's courage, the owners love, and the sadness of Bama's passing.As Veterinarians we talk about the Human-Animal bond and what it means to our well being. But what makes that bond strong in some situations? I believe it is like a good marriage. Each person/pet involved contributes to each others well being. This relationship was very strong as seen in both Bama and her owner.

Bama endeared all that met her. She had a kind nature and trusted all. You would look at her wounds and wonder how this animal was still alive, but then you would look at her attitude and willingness to live and doing everything for Bama was a must.

Even before Bama died she had to be feeling the effects of her failing kidneys, Bama showed her gusto for life and her owners love.In lifes journey what consistently amazes me about our pets is exemplified by Bama's story. She showed happiness with the simple things in life. Bama was just happy to be with her companions, whether is was just to sit quietly with them, or a gentle scratch behind the ear, Bama was happy. Bama did not know or particularly care what would happen next, she was just happy with what she had. May she rest in peace.

June 24, 2007 12:51 PM