Most of us who grew up with the Toy Story films remember the song, "When She Loved Me," from Toy Story 2, written by Randy Newman and performed by Sarah McLachlan. It is a song that pretty much ripped our hearts out because it is about a special bond, filled with unconditional love, and the grief that comes from the change or loss of that relationship.
Over 20 years later, this song holds a deeper and more personal meaning for me. Although I have been blessed to have several close bonds with family and friends, it is my bond with my almost 14-year-old dog, Reesee, that resonates with this song the most. We are together every day, and I take care of her in the same way I would if I had a child. She is there to comfort me when I am sad and I am there to bring her comfort as well. We both show each other unwavering unconditional love and I also believe we are emotionally and intuitively connected. She brings me so much joy!
Reesee is my best friend, and over the past year, I have watched her "drift away" as she ages, nearly blind, more confused, and not able to bounce about as she did when she was younger. I have been broken thinking about the day she will no longer be with me, even while I hold the belief she will always be with me in Spirit.
So, when I decided to record this song recently, I was already connected to those raw emotions that come from imagining a lonelier life without her, while at the same time cherishing the beautiful eight years we have spent together that "lives within my heart."
Even though it wrecked me having to tap into these emotions, I wanted to record this song as a tribute to her while she is still with me. Singing it also helped me to better process and release what I have felt over the past year so that I could experience more joy in the present moment with Reesee. I decided to make this video and share it on my blog because I have learned of others I know who have recently lost their fur babies.
To all my fellow pet parents out there and those who have either dealt with the loss of their pet or currently taking care of a senior pet, my heart goes out to you and I hope this brings you some comfort.