She called about 1 in the morning as she was frantically driving Lester, her dog, to the 24-hour emergency vet clinic. We talked about anything and everything.  She called again as she slowly drove home alone. We talked about anything and everything and loss. She adopted him three years ago. An old dog who was almost deaf and blind and with heart problems didn’t have much of a chance for adoption from the humane society. Little did they know the heart that saw the ad. Medical attention and lots of love may not have cured his health problems but they gifted him a beautiful coat, twinkling eyes, a constant wagging tail, and a smile that would melt your heart.

Another friend today sent pictures of rocks beside a river that gifted a wonderful virtual walk. As I type migrating geese are flying across the window, just minutes from a much needed rest upon the lake. I can hear them bellowing encouragement to the one in front buffeting them from the wind. My friend called again to tell me of deer in a field that stood and watched her without fear. They gifted their presence to her broken heart.

Ram Das says “we’re all just walking each other home.” That phrase has danced in my heart all day. Sweet Lester I will miss you and your smile. Thank you for walking me home. May my presence with all others be as gentle as yours.