My dad has Alzheimer’s and he’s  been living with me since last September. His disease marches on taking more and more of his mind. The other morning when I went in to wale him he was obviously upset. He thanked me for waking him from a a bad dream.

When I asked him about the dream he said he couldn’t tell me. Then my dog Ginger came in for her morning snuggle. His eyes filled with tears and he was so glad to see her. He told me he had dreamed I had put her to sleep. I left the two of them having their morning love fest.

I went to my computer and found a copy of the rainbow bridge and read it to him. He was more peaceful than I have seen him in a long time. So, now when he takes a nap or goes to bed, I read it to him. He smiles sweetly and tells me what a nice story and then he goes peacefully to sleep.

He has asked me several times if I think it is real. My response has been that when he dies all his loved ones will be there waiting and he will be wrapped in the arms of the angels. Most of his life he has hated god, swore there wasn’t one and insisted dead was dead. Perhaps he is right but all I know is the idea of the rainbow bridge makes me feel better too.

Someone sent me this when one of my beloved fur friends died. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

The Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…. 

Author unknown…

With love and aloha,
Susan