I’ll miss you, Big Brown Dog……
His name was Samson, but I affectionately called him “Big Brown Dog.” Even from the time he was a puppy he was a big, awkward, lumbering, ball of brown fur. They say that a dog is man’s best friend, and in some ways that is true. I never remember him being ashamed of me, mad at me, or unwilling to come over and let me love on him. In fact, every time I visited Catherine’s and Clint’s house, which is often, he would rush over and lay his head in my lap as if to say, your late, get to work rubbing my ears! Big Brown Dog was a faithful friend, never wavering in his devotion to his family. When they adopted a small hyper-active Boston Bull Terrier named Charlie, Samson took it in stride, and shared his home with the the new comer, even though one of her favorite games was pestering him in every conceivable manner, he stayed the calm loving old boy he had always been! He knew no other way.
You can know everything there is to know about someone when you look into their eyes, and if they look back, you can sense their soul. Big Brown Dog was and open book to read and you knew he loved you, when you looked into those big brown eyes! Samson would love to get up on the couch and lay his head in your lap, and would never move as long as you would hold him there. If he got to warm he would get up and move to the floor, but never go very far from your feet.
Several years ago, Samson ran off and got lost, he was gone for days and we frantically searched for him, it seemed he was gone and we were all torn up, but then he reappeared, thinner, and oh so very glad to see his family!
After that he rarely went very far from home, I think in fear he would be lost again. Yesterday he took his last trip. At almost 11 he succumbed to what we believe was a heart attack in the kitchen floor next to his beloved family, as they had lunch. I joined them in the kitchen and after consoling my grandchildren, and Catherine, and Clint I ran into town to run errands. As I drove alone my mind was filled with all those wonderful moments loving on my Big Brown Dog. He wasn’t really my dog, of course he belonged to the Catherine, Clint, Cassidy and Cade, but then again he was my dog too, in fact anyone’s he allowed into his big warm heart, was truly his friend.
I’ll miss you my friend, it was great to have you to love, and to be loved by you, I’ll see you before too long, on the other side. Be at peace Samson, and don’t worry, I’ll watch over your family until we meet again.
Blessings,
the pilgrim
I allowed myself to really let loose and cry after writing this dedication to Big Brown Dog this morning, it feels good to let it go…… It would be an honor and a privilege to be remembered as warmly as he will.
This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 19th, 2014 at 1:27 pm
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My condolences. This made me cry and I didn’t even know him. It’s amazing how special they can be.
Yes it is, and how amazing you are Joshua.
Thank you Dad for being faithful and unwavering in your love for your family too. The support we’ve received over the last 24 hrs is a testament to how many people love us and Sam! We’re truly grateful that we got to be his family.
With a family like you, Clint, Cassidy and Cade and of course Wes, Rhonda, Elijah, Ben, Scott, Diane, Ben, and Hannah. My love and support could be nothing but, unwavering!
It is amazing to me the amount of joy, laughter, silliness, sweetness and love that one of God’s little furry creations can bring to a person and/or a family! My wife and I have had pets (mostly cats) all our lives and even though we call them our “Little Heart Breakers” we could never live without the joy that they bring into our lives. They are truly a blessing.
Amen, Amen and AMEN!
I sincerely feel for you and your family during this time of loss. We too have Sadie who is 16 years old and is on her last days. Since before Christmas she has been failing fast but don’t seem to have any pain, just wasting away. She has been a great friend to everyone who comes in contact with her and her loving ways. Your family is in my prayers.
Thank you Randy, I will pray for Sadie too!
So sorry Bill for your loss. A pet is truly a member of the family. I pray for peace for you and your family.
Brad
Thanks Brad, you’re a good friend!
May blessings, peace, and comfort consume you and your family!
Thanks Casey, I know they are!
So sorry to hear. Had to put 2 of mine to sleep back to back for cancer. Within a couple months my sister came home with free labs someone had. Also got a guide dog puppy in training and my fiancé is in the process of getting a service dog. Amazing what mans best friend can do and the impact they have being part of the family. I’m sure he will be greatly missed and sure you’ll always have great memories.
We will have the memories! Thanks for sharing your experiences with me.
Bill, I’m so sorry for you and for Catherine’s family and for all who loved Samson/Big Brown Dog. You said it all and brought me to tears. They leave such a hole, don’t they? My best friend, 10 now, is right here by my side. Oh how I will miss her when she’s gone.
So true, love now!!!!
Bill,
Sorry for your family’s loss. I have lost two dogs to old age. Both had to be put down and it is hard every time. But the right thing to do is remember the good times.
Also I am sure you will be remembered the same way. On a lighter side I can start calling you Big Brown Bill, but Sherlene will have to scratch your ears for you.
John
That works my friend, that works!
So sorry, my friend. They give so much to us.
They do!
Bill: Having recently made the hard, but humane decision to put down our kitty of 14 years, I can relate to your loving memories and feelings of gratitude, emptiness, sadness, etc. My prayers for you and your family to feel God’s love.
Thank you Danny, He has surrounded us with many loving and sympathetic brothers and sisters just like you! Thank you for your kindness!