Clyde was a beautiful boy. He was born in the spring of 2022, and grew into one of the most majestic felines I've ever known. His quirky, innocent personality made him easy to love and impossible to forget. His fun loving yet peaceful demeanor made him one of the best morning walk partners I've had in recent memory.
The following is a poem by an unknown author that is especially important to me. Reading it never fails to be a cathartic experience all throughout. Especially when I've lost a cat, like Clyde.
"Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart."
Clyde unexpectedly passed away in the spring of 2023. He was fine one day, and then went downhill the day after. I'm still shocked and immensely saddened that he's gone. But I know I'll never forget him. I'm minting three final images in this collection to honor his spirit, and this is one of them.
