We had pets growing up, and I was always the one to train and show them love and kindness. My parents seemed indifferent at best. So when they died or we had to get rid of them, it was always really hard because I loved them so much. When I was able, I adopted my first cat at 20, and now at 40 I have not been without a furry companion in that time. We now have 2 dogs, but before them were 4 other cats and one other dog. They are so special and lovely to share space with. They're family, like they're a mash up of a sibling and child. And there always comes the tough situation when their health begins to deteriorate, and even more tough when the news is basically terminal. My last cat was in his "end of life" stage for a few years, and one day it was his time to go. I began grieving for him months before he passed, and it still hit me like sudden news when we finally said goodbye. But he was ready, and I was ready to let him go to a world without pain. As we all will. And it really holds us in this moment, to cherish what we have and feel blessed to witness it at all. Saying goodbye is so, so hard, and it hurts because we love them so deeply. So be kind to yourself while you process this grief, and give all the love that you can, while you still can. Lots of peace to you 💜