Why Do You Think Everybody Believes Relationships are Supposed to Last Forever?

In the film, Before Sunrise, Jesse notes, “ . . . everything is so finite. But don’t you think that that’s what, makes our time, at specific moments, so important?” 

With dogs and with people, I think that’s true.  Specific moments are important. 

Personally, I believe that we don’t “own” our animals.  Instead, we accept stewardship for our animals.  When we accept stewardship, we promise to make sure that an animal has plenty of food, is warm, safe, dry, comfortable, and loved.  In keeping an animal safe, we promise to do everything and anything that is necessary.  We promise that our animal that he will not be alone – ever.

A bit later in the film, Jesse asks Celine, “Why do you think everybody believes relationships are supposed to last forever?”

Relationships with pets don’t last forever.  They can’t last forever.

Pets have shorter life expectancies than people.  That means, once we accept stewardship, our pet never has to be away from us.  We promise to be there to say “goodbye,” too.

So, Jesse’s right.  Everything is finite.  We have to make the most of specific moments with our pets.  They count.  While our relationship may not last forever, the love does.  The feeling stays forever.

Having recently lost Mr. Sunny Sunny Bun Bun, I know that every moment counted.  Every time he barked for pumpkin, treats, or to be put on the sofa counted.  Every walk . . .every time I put his purple fleece blanket in the dryer to warm it up before setting him in the stroller in the morning . . .every marrow bone – counted.  It counted for me.  It counted for him.

RIP – Mr. Sunny Sunny Bun Bun