The Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of Heaven is a place called The Rainbow Bridge. When
each animal dies they arrive at The 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, someone who was left
behind either in reality or the dreams of what should have been for
those that never had a special bond, a special friend. Our friends that
shared our lives comfort the friendless ones, promising them that
their time will come.
Over the hill one by one come many people. They each stop and stare,
hearts caught in throats by the majesty of the view. For many there
are friends waiting, but more than a few have faced life's burdens
alone and come to this haven expecting no one and falling to the
ground in dispair. As each huddles in his separate, silent misery a
small silent form approaches. Soft muzzles are tentatively placed on
clenched hands. Tender caresses from paws and fingers, gentle
whispers of love pass back and forth.
Loneliness meets loneliness and
dissolves in joy. Friendless no more, the person and animal unite in
joyous contemplation of their new-found special friendship. God in
His Wisdom has allowed another chance for those that had none on
this earth.
As for the other animals. they all run and play together, but the day
comes when they too suddenly stop and look into the distance. Their
bright eyes are intent; their eager bodies begin to quiver. Suddenly,
they break from the group, flying over the green grass, faster and
faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friends
finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted
again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress
their beloved heads, and you look once more into those trusting eyes,
so long gone from your life, but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together