Our pets are examples of unconditional love

For years I didn't want a pet because it would die, and I couldn't handle death. When my eldest daughter was six (she's nearly nineteen) she wanted a pet for school pet day - and that's how a ginger and white cat we named Sam came into our lives. I'm not a cat person, but Sam has been in my daily life for over 13 years.

Sammy has been missing for two days. I found myself crying often today. I realize that Sam has always loved us unconditionally - we rescued him through the SPCA. His constant presence in our lives has been a reminder of this love.

We found Sammy this afternoon, in a ditch, very unwell. He is at the vet's tonight, and if his health does not improve by morning we will have to end his misery. The illusion of Earth creates a sense of separation when a loved one (human or animal) dies. In fact, there is no separation, and no death. It still hurts a lot, though...