Thank you for sharing your personal story. My husband passed away suddenly and I understand what you are talking about. I can relate to what you say about it either tearing you apart or something good can come from it. I have a profoundly different experience of my spiritual connection as a result of this loss. My spiritual connection was important to me before this (I am not religious but spiritual) and now it is my life giving force.

My life has not turned out the way I expected but I am so much stronger than I ever expected I was.

You aren’t alone in your grief, even though it feels like it. Every time I see Amber’s picture, I break out in tears not only for her but for you and what I know you are going through. Animal lovers are luck to have one another because that’s where we get our comfort from. Your grieving should take the path that you choose for as long as you need.

Nadine, thank you for your wise words. This experience is making me re-evaluate a lot of beliefs I’ve held for a long time. I think there is something to be said for leaning into the pain rather than running from it. I reread the last two chapters of your book last week, a few days after Amber died, and they provided great comfort. I’ll look forward to the revised edition.

Moxie Paws, thank you for your words of comfort, they’re very much appreciated.