By Casey Curtis
I dump the rice out and begin measuring again. I need to be sure all of her will fit inside the brass belly of the urn I imported from India. Reassuring myself that she’ll fit, I pour the rice out and begin scooping for real. Five heaping cups is the sum total of her golden life.
I screw the lid on tight and ask her if she’s ready to go for a ride. My heart sinks at the silence, but I grab the leash and her favorite rubber chicken anyway as we head out the door toward the open road ahead.
Just went through this. It never gets easier.
How beautiful and poignant.
I love that this dog preferred a rubber chicken to some other dog toy. I rescue shelter dogs when they are elderly so I have been here too many times. I spent hours searching for the right urn the first time I chose cremation over burial. There is so much emotion attached to receiving the ashes. I love your story.
This is so moving, as the rubber chicken says so much about what went on before this time. Succinctly told.
What a beautiful story. Reminds me of my past experiences!
So proud of you. Incredible story!
This is so heart-tugging. “My heart sinks at the silence”. That really moved me. Those words capture so many emotions of love and loss. Well done!
What a beautiful story! I too have been there. Even 5 years after we’re unwilling to let go of our brown lab’s ashes. Love the rubber chicken!
This piece is perfect in every way.