This afternoon when I took a routine trip to the dog park, I met the most extraordinary woman with a very touching tale. Her name, Anne King. She was there with her daughter and her grand-dog. It all began when I walked through the park gate and noticed a dog that looked similar to mine. When I inquired about the breed of the dog, a man in a wheelchair responded harshley, "He's not a pittbull!" Similarly accustomed to people asking me if my dog is a "pitt mix," I immediately sympathized with the severity of his response. I pointed out that my dog too is often mistaken as a pitt and feared because of this association. Especially interested in the topic, a very attractive, well dressed elderly woman approached me and immediately struck up a a conversation about the unfortunate and generally undeserving reputation that pittbulls carry.
As I commonly do at the dog park, I talked about my dear dog-child, Samantha, her unique breed and the amazing bond that we are able to form with our pets. In general, the people you encounter at a dog park love their canine companions more than most. I found that Anne was no different in her love for animals she has had in her life. Anne expressed to me that her dog had recently passed away and was clearly distraught about this reality. Anytime I hear about someone's dog passing I am immediately overcome with emotion. I cannot imagine life without my sidekick Sam! It was very clear that Anne realized my empathy and wanted to talk about her dog so I inquired further about her dog's breed. A jack russel terrier, the sweetest animal she has ever met. The pain in her face was undeniable. I just met this woman and I found myself holding back tears. With a lump in my throat it was all I could do to not throw my arms around her and hug her in hopes of relieving some of her pain. For the dog lovers of the world, it is a very dreaded day when a dog passes. It is like losing the most loyal friend.
When I asked how the dog died, I never would have imagined Anne's response. "He was grief stricken. He died mourning." At this point, I knew this poor woman's story was far more painful than only losing her dog. "He died grieving for my passed husband. The vets all said this was not unusual when a dog loses its owner." I had chills. With the realization that she had lost both her dog and husband, my heart broke again for her. When I didn't respond, because if I spoke, I knew the tears would fall from my eyes - she continued on with her story.
"It really was love at first sight. He was a police officer in Canada and I was a victim's advocate in North Carolina. When one of my clients passed while on vacation in Canada, he was the first on the scene. He called me to talk. He was devastated about the death. I knew I needed to meet him. I got on the first plane to New Brunswick, Canada. When I stepped off that plane and we looked in eachother's eyes, it was like we had found what we'd been searching our entire lives for. It was true love." As if she had returned to that place in time. she told me with such conviction about how he was undoubtedly the love of her life, her soul mate. She relived the wonderful times they shared and the undeniable adoration she felt for her husband. She proudly informed me that he was a mountie in the Canadian police. This job took her all over the countryside of Canada. She talked of how well her sweet Gordon, her husband, treated everyone he came across and how she was his princess. "We never shared a harsh word. He loved like no one I'd ever met and lived life with the most admirable passion!"
Several times she noted that she couldn't believe she was able to talk about Gordon without breaking into tears, though it was clear that she was putting forth great effort to remain composed. She suggested that maybe I was just meant to hear her story. This touched me even further and I only wanted to hear more.
When I asked how long they were married, I was surprised by her response. "10 wonderful years..." She must have read the surprise in my expression because she continued, "When you find your soul mate, every day is a gift... a month, a year, a decade, or a century. I'm just thankful we found eachother, even late in life." I was speechless, again because I knew where this conversation had the potential of going and I was far from confident that I had the emotional strength to discuss it.
As expected, she turned the table and asked about my life situation and if I had a "special someone". I told her about Kory and our wedding plans or lack there of. Her eyes were glossy with tears. "You are so blessed, my dear. To have a whole lifetime together... to grow old with your soul mate. Please appreciate the gift you have been given." I didn't know what to say, even though I had predicted she would bring this to light. I had chills, I wanted to cry. Again, I couldn't speak. Immediately I was imagining my life without Kory and just knew if I let my mind stray on this path I would end up an emotional mess.... surrounded by strangers and their rambunctious dogs. I thanked her for the advice and for sharing such a personal story and giving me the most amazing insight at a time when I am just so overwhelmed by the idea of planning a wedding! We both agreed there are lessons to be learned in her experiences.
I tried to lighten the discussion by mentioning that we'd considered Prince Edward Island as a wedding destination, only to be talked out of a northern local for the event. With great enthusiasm she talked of beauty of the island and every reason why I need to add it to my list of places to see. Living only a short drive from the island, she insisted that if Kory and I are able to make it to her 'neck of the woods' she would happily have us to her cottage and she gave me her phone number. I was flattered by her offer and delighted by the idea of her getting to meet Kory!
The remainder of our time at the dog park Anne and I discussed shallow things like weather and our travels. She even gave me a Canadian coin worth $2 and insisted I keep it as an incentive to come visit!
I will never ever forget the wisdom this dear old woman shared with me. I will cherish my life with Kory, my soul mate, and the time that we have together with a new awareness of how precious it truly is. What an unexpected blessing this routine trip to the dog park became, and an angel Anne King is for giving me a lifelong gift through her story. I'm certain she was right in thinking I was meant to hear her story... I haven't stopped thinking about it since.
