So Long, Shadow

As parents, we like to think we have a handle on things. We like to think that we know what is right, what will work well, and what we should help our children avoid. We are charged with keeping our kids safe and making decisions that protect their hearts.

And sometimes, we fail.

Today, we took our puppy Shadow to a shelter to be adopted by another family, and our hearts are filled with grief. I find it amazing how quickly she became such an integral part of our family, and how she stole our hearts. Given all the good reasons we had for letting her go to another home, I'm surprised at the mourning. But we mourn.

I'm resisting the temptation to explain our decision, to justify our actions, and to use logic to attempt to ease the pain. We made a choice, and allowed our boy to love a puppy we couldn't keep. And today, we grieve.

So long, Shadow. Although it hurts right now, we are glad to have known you.