The Living Tribute 

Losing a dear friend of any species is one of the most painful experiences we ever endure. But doesn’t the intensity of the pain also reflect the richness of the relationship? 

When we buried our first rabbit, my husband predicted that our pain would ease, not in forgetting, but in remembering her. But how does one truly remember? Do you sit around, sad and misty-eyed, reminiscing (I’ve done plenty of that)? No, a better way is a positive deed, an act of generosity, a creative work, or a simple act of kindness performed because that animal changed your life.

There are no shortcuts in overcoming grief, and if you belittle the love you felt for a friend, you will only diminish something lovable in yourself. You can, instead, continue to love that “person” through other animals who are alive now and need your care. Have you thought of fostering homeless rabbits? In helping other people find that special companion, you will feel the presence of your own. Isn’t this preferable to the emptiness of forgetting? 

There is no better way to honor an individual’s memory than by causing something good to happen as a result of having known that individual. You are the monument, and your actions pay tribute to your cherished friend. Here was an animal who made an impact on your life. Isn’t that important?

The Living Tribute  was originally published in House Rabbit Journal v1n5.

©Copyright Marinell Harriman. All Rights Reserved. Republished with the permission of the author.

  • Marinell Harriman

    Marinell Harriman is the author of The House Rabbit Handbook. Over the past 40 years she has fostered and rescued hundreds of rabbits. She has published numerous articles on house rabbit philosophy, care, and behavior. She has a special place in her heart for disabled and special needs rabbits.

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