To one of the dearest and oldest friends that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing in this life:



Our last night together was certainly one of bittersweet mix of happiness and sorrow.  It almost seems like just yesterday that I first brought you home, but it was October 1988.  You were so small then, that you couldn’t climb uncarpeted stairs because you were only half the height of the tread.  You were so mischievous, agile and active.  We’d play for hours on end.  You slept with me each night.



When I left for the service and you’d sleep with mom, but every time I came home, you’d sleep right on me and purr all night long.  When I got of the service, I took you to live in my new house.  We’ve been together now for more than 17 years and you’ve been right by my side for every minute of each hour that I was home.  You’ve known me long before I was the person I am now.  We grew up together.  Many nights I’d lay awake in bed and pet you thinking of the future.  You’ve been company to all my hopes and all my fears.  You’ve been with me through good years and bad, and rode through all the highs and lows of my life with me.



I’m sad because the time has come that you’re no longer you. It’s so hard to have to make this decision, but I know that it’s selfish to keep you here because I don’t have the stomach to make that painful decision.  You’ve grown old, thin, weak and fragile.  Your poor legs shake when you stand.  I love you so much and know that I’ll never, ever forget your companionship.  It meant more to me than anyone in this world will ever know.



Go easy old man;

	Until the rainbow bridge.