Nancy Kaufman Poet Elegy

My Griffin

Dear Griffin,
 I clearly remember the first time we met. Jim had brought you at all of
four months of age to my families summer reunion. You were shy with
those striking bi-eyes and those massive white paws accentuated by
your thick brindle coating. Jim had purchased you from a local pet store,
not long after you had been flown to Maryland from a midwestern Indian
reservation where you were born. Those white paws were wobbly still as
they touched the unfamiliar grass and were overwhelmed by all the people
attention while your senses soaked in the great outdoors.
 I was still in mourning for Tobin, my Australian shepherd dog but as each
day passed I grew more and more amused by your puppy antics as you
warmed your way into my life.
 I also remember the day when Jim and I went to Rockville in the snow with 
you to find a dog companion and were fortunate enough to find Izzie, a
ridgeback and your soul mate. From that first day, the two of you rough housed tirelessly and were inseparable for many years to come.
 Griffin, I must admit that you presented a bit of a challenge to train after
Tobin who would have died in the stay command. Jim and I went to numerous trainings before you were molded into the obedient dog you became.
 I was always in awe of your gentle nature and innate connection to
other wildlife. I remember the time a cow licked you thru the fence at the
Department of Agriculture and also how a deer sat down near you once in your dog paddock.
  It's really hard to say good bye after fourteen years to such an integral member of our family. You have carved a special place in our hearts forever.
 Until we meet again dear friend at the Rainbow bridge.
                                                       Rest in peace, Nancy

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Kim Rodrigues January 28, 2024 at 10:44 AM So sweet and heartfelt! A tribute to a loving and faithful companion. Nancy Kaufman January 31, 2024 at 7:06 AM Hi Kim, Yes 14 years and I think Griffin is the reason I moved to Pa., to be near him as he aged out. It is painful when they leave us and I don't think I'll ever own another one. Thanks for your visit. It's most appreciated.

J. Summers January 27, 2024 at 6:01 PM So sorry for your loss, I know exactly where you’re coming from. Thanks for the Rainbow Bridge inclusion. John Nancy Kaufman January 31, 2024 at 7:04 AM thank you J. for your visit and kind words. I have a friend who is a massage therapist who raises puppies which are placed later in the prisons and then to people with disabilities. She told me about the rainbow bridge poem which I love.

Lin Lane January 27, 2024 at 8:40 AM Nancy, goosebumps are raised as tears swell, for I know too well the heartache you feel. They become our children, only more loyal than any human could ever be. I'm so truly sorry you've lost Tobin and Griffin. I lost my sixteen-year-old Sheltie, Kaci many years ago, and I still hurt from the pain of losing him. Love Izzie with double hugs. Lin Lane January 27, 2024 at 1:59 PM Oh I didn’t know you’d also lost Izzie. I rescued a kitty 6 years ago who developed throat cancer. After I lost her I swore I’d never have another pet. It hurts too much. Have a good weekend, Nancy. Nancy Kaufman January 27, 2024 at 1:50 PM Hi Lin, Thank you for your sweet and empathetic comments. Griffin is the dog I raised for five years, our Hus-kita, until my divorce and as my ex bought him originally, I was a frequent visitor. My ex lost two elder dogs earlier this month while recovering from cancer related surgery. Izzie passed several years ago though. He still has one rescue though, thankfully. I've just an old cat lady these days. Easier..