RIP Jasmine - "Just a dog"

People have told me, 'lighten up, it's just a dog,' or, 'that's a lot of money for just a dog'. They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for 'just a dog'.

Some of my proudest moments have come about with 'just a dog'. Many hours have passed and my only company was 'just a dog', but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by 'just a dog', and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of 'just a dog' gave me comfort and reason to overcome the dark.

Those who think it's 'just a dog', probably also use phrases like 'just a friend', 'just a sunrise', or 'just a promise'. 'Just a dog' brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. 'Just a dog' brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person.

Because of 'just a dog' I rise early, take long walks, and look longingly to the future. So for me and people like me, it's not 'just a dog' but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

'Just a dog' brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday others have the opportunity to understand that it's not 'just a dog' but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being 'just a woman'.

So the next time you hear the phrase 'just a dog', smile. You are one of the blessed few who understands.

RIP Jasmine - 14/05/98 - 17/12/10