His name was Alexander Windsor. A 110 pound adult male Doberman, he made quite a presence in our lives. Beloved companion. Devoted friend. Always smiling, he loved us no matter what sort of mood we brought home and presented to him. He lived in the present and never held a grudge. He did not spend his days worrying about tomorrow or even a particular afternoon.
Struggling with an incurable illness, he fought to remain our constant companion. He lived to please us no matter how terrible he must have felt. We were always first in his life.
I tell everyone that my friend Cheryl Payton is an ‘animal whisperer’. She told me, “He’ll tell you when it’s time”. And, he did. He stopped smiling. He refused his pills. No longer would he bring us a toy when we came home.
Alexander Windsor. We mourn your loss and while we will miss you beyond words – spoken or written – you taught us how to live. And, for that we are grateful. We are better for having known the character of who you were.
God, thank you for giving us such a wonderful example of unconditional love. If it’s alright with You, we’d like to be with him in heaven. Take care of him for us. Let him know how much we will always love him. Enjoy his smile and watch out – he loves to bring you toys.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 NLT)