I read Andi's post with Harvey boneless over my shoulder, purring.

Merry Christmas.

It's so good to hear from you, Bonny, that I'm typing from my phone, which I suck at. Your heart will let you know when the time is right.

BUT, in this moment I can't imagine loving another as much as I love Bartleby. I just can't see that as possible.

Of course not. Because love is not generic. It is particular to that person or animal or even place. I discovered this when I tried to put together a wedding ceremony out of poetry. Love poetry only works when it is very very specific so it was hard to find good poetry that could be adapted.

But I think the important thing for you, bonny, is to remember that you need a focus for your love. Whatever flavor or form it finds in that dog that will one day come into your life. I think for you - more than many people I know - loving is a form of mindfulness. It grounds you in the world. But the strength you get from love is in the giving of it.

It took me 18 months after Lucy to be ready for another dog. A friend whoblost her dog around the same time had a new puppy the next week. There's no rule other than what feels right.

Yep. It's all about what feels right. I hope it feels right sooner rather than later so you'll have a companion again, but it's all about when your heart is ready. Much love to all you have lost a furry family member recently.

I think for you - more than many people I know - loving is a form of mindfulness. It grounds you in the world. But the strength you get from love is in the giving of it.

Again, David, I am struck dumb by your insight. Love is my anchor to this world. The sense of being completely untethered that I feel is greatly eased by how wonderful people have been.

I'm thinking about you, Bonny. And I want to apologize for spelling your name as Bonnie in my earlier note! My aunt is named Bonnie, and it was just habit.

Hope everyone's Christmases/other winter festivals were nice.

Thoughts for you, bonny.

I just cross-posted to facebook after a friend suggested that sooner would be better than later to share the news.

I will have to go outside fairly soon and it will be easier on me if my local FB friends don't ask how Bartleby is.

The last line of the FB post thanks those who have "kept me anchored to the world since he left it."

That would be you all.

If we are connected in both places, please forgive the inundation.

Toddson,

I haven't been to the Good Riddance thread (bad buffista) but if you have a recent diagnosis of diabetes, that was me in july and folks in Bitches were really awesome. I have some suggestions depending on your circumstances and goals, so hit me up if you would like.