Enduring Grief: The Journey of a Lifetime with Harley

It was a time of great sadness for me, when I had to make the difficult decision to put an cherished pet, Sage, to rest. But before Sage, there was Harley, my beloved Jack Russell Terrier, who shared my life and brought me through one of my darkest periods.

Harley: The Dog of a Lifetime

Harley was always by my side, especially during the winter of 1993 when I lost two close friends to AIDS. The fragility of life was starkly clear to me. Harley gave me the strength to focus on the present and the possibilities of life. He was more than just a dog; he was a confidant that nurtured my spirit, and in return, I nurtured him. Together, we faced challenges and thrived. When we moved from New York City to Southern California in the year 2000, we continued to navigate new landscapes and challenges.

The Fall and Rise: Surviving Life's Traumas

Less than a year after our move, the world was forever changed by the 9/11 attacks. The impact of that trauma was profound, but Harley's unwavering love and presence helped me rise above it. I found solace in taking him for runs along the beautiful beaches of San Clemente. His energy and zest for life reminded me that no matter how heavy my burdens, it was possible to find new purpose.

The Decline and Goodbye

Tragedy struck again when Harley developed kidney failure in September 2010. I gave him hope with daily treatments and care, but the time came when I knew I had to let him go. The decision was excruciating, but the day finally arrived, and my heart knew it was time. He passed away in my arms, where he always belonged.

Harley's legacy is one of strength and resilience. At three months old, he grew into a tenacious and loyal companion. At fifteen years and nine months, he was still beautiful, even in the final moments of his life. The gifts he gave me were immeasurable: teaching me about life's durability and showing me the importance of letting go with dignity.

Reflections and Gratitude

Writing this story makes my heart heavy with emotions. If you have read about my journey with Harley, thank you for your empathy and support. Harley taught me so much, and he will always be a part of me.

{Age}: Three Months Old, 14 Years Old, Two Years Old, 17 Years Old (One Week Before Passing)

Even though he is no longer with us, the memories of Harley and the lessons he taught me continue to resonate.