Spiritual Things Matter

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened. ~Anatole France

^{Photograph by K. Alan Lewis}

Kal, one of my cyberfriends, just lost his dear dog of nine years. Beau had prostate cancer which, when discovered, had already spread through much of his body. Kal loved his friend too much to allow him to suffer with pain any more than he already had. Therefore, he made the very painful decision to put him to sleep. Kal’s heart is hurting right now. He will miss his friend terribly. Please remember him in your thoughts and prayers. Anyone that is a pet owner knows how much a part of our lives these animals can be.

I was always so moved when Kal wrote about his four-legged child and friend on his site. It was clear just how much they meant to each other. I am glad that Beau had such a good home, such a loving parent to love him and care for him. My thoughts and love are with Kal and Beau as I dedicate this poem to them both.

Man’s Best Friend

Animals! Oh what friends -
if we want them to be;
touched by their innocence -
we are forever changed.
It is a gift indescribable,
so precious, and unforgettable
as they quietly see into our hearts
and somehow understand.

Spoken words of exchange
are impossible, they say -
between man and this lovely
wide-eyed creature.
Yet, love’s language is always present -
if we just listen…
of acceptance and devotion
they so generously give away.

A best friend,
a faithful consoler,
and a true companion -
is the presence of such a comforting
and trusted friend.
Mysteriously, such pure love is possible
between them and us -
for when tears are shed at their loss -
we grasp this truth again.

Lovingly dedicated to Alan and Beau in memory of Beau’s happy life on this earth.

~Viola Jaynes
August 19, 2008

A good marriage is that in which each appoints the other guardian of his solitude.~Rainer Maria Rilke

Not long ago, I read an article that featured someone saying that one must be married at least for a quarter of a century before one can even begin to understand what love is all about. I thought about that concept for a long time. I also thought about the many who give up on their marriages and their spouse after a few short years because the feeling of love has faded, not realizing that, at that point, the true work of love must begin. I thought about those will not forgive the other for mistakes yet they fail to look within themselves with complete honesty.  When we do, we realized that each of us will be in need for forgiveness during difficult times in life and during difficult times in our marriages.

My life with my husband has changed me forever. He has been my closest friend and there is nothing that we cannot talk about. This has been one of the most valuable and precious gifts in our marriage for which, I have been so thankful for.   My husband is a solid rock with deep convictions on such matters as work ethics, commitment, friendships, and love. From the beginning we have given each other plenty of space, which we both have always needed and respected. This has also allowed us a deeper glimpse into each other’s souls and a greater understanding as to the making and molding of who we are. Only time can bring such a gift.

Our choice to rear children together has brought new dimension into our lives. We continue to pray for much wisdom as we instill our love into their hearts and as we continue to commit our lives to spiritual principles and God’s mercy, grace and love.

My husband’s influence in my life will remain as a positive and powerful source of energy as we have grown with each passing year to love and value each other. He has indeed been a very special gift to me!

Marriage can often be very challenging.  However, I believe that if we are open to change and understand that our spouse changes as well, it will be much easier to grow along side our partner.  As people grow, they change.  Change is inevitable as we gain new experiences, new interest, and make new friendships.  If we give each other plenty of room, perhaps we can grow toward each other instead of growing away from each other.  Long years together can be profoundly rewarding if we can just be patient with one another and remember that we are, indeed, guardians of each other’s solitude.