Remembering ..

Today I've been remembering a friend who left us one year ago today. Her beautiful cat, Cushag, joined her as well. When ever I think of one missed friend, I can't help but to think of the others -Which has been quite a few over the years. I think of them and the ways they touched our lives; Each one leaving a special mark on our heart. I truly do believe that's how our spirits live on.

About two weeks ago, I watched a documentary on Netflix about the atomic bombing in Hiroshima during the final stages of World War II in 1945. Like with all wars, thousands of lives were lost in the devastation left by the bomb. At the end of the documentary, it showed how the Japanese people remember their lost loved ones each year by holding a ceremony. Floating candles/lanterns are placed in the ocean; each one signifying a spirit.

Today, as I thought of my friend, my thoughts went back to the scenes I saw of the floating lanterns lighting up the evening/night sky. I thought of how beautiful they looked; wishing I could somehow do the same for the lives that became apart of mine and sadly left.

No matter what, they will always be a piece of me...

“Make of yourself a light.”

— The Buddha

The Original Rainbow Bridge Poem

I read over on FB (Facebook) that today is Rainbow Bridge day. So in memory of those we've lost recently, I went looking for this poem ..A very dear friend of mine had shown it to me a few yrs ago.

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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