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 at least be married 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 marriage and their spouse after a few short years because the feeling of love had faded, not realizing that, at that point, the true work of love must begin. I thought about those who would not forgive the other for mistakes that had been made, yet they fail to look within themselves with true transparency. In doing so, it is realized that all of us will be in need for forgiveness during difficult times in our life, and during difficult times in our marriage.

Some of my readers have asked me about influential people in my current life. Perhaps I will write, in my next few blog entries, about people who have touched my life intimately and personally. It seems only fitting that I begin with my husband who, although we have been married for nineteen years this October, we have known one another for over twenty-three years.

My husband is a wonderful musician, playing mostly stringed instruments, but shining the most with his finger style guitar. I have always encouraged him in his music because I have always recognized his love for it and the important role it has played in his life. As much as he is a gifted musician, he also is a gifted scientist, loving the work he does and working hard as he continues to excel in it. I am very proud of all his accomplishments!

My husband also has an understanding of human nature and is not one to put situations or people into a small box. He realizes that human beings are just that - human beings - and that we all change as we grow. During his more reflective moments, I realize a deep well within him, which I have often valued and drawn from in our marriage.

My life with my husband has changed me forever. He has been my truest friend and there is nothing under the sun that we cannot talk about at some point. This has been one of the most valuable and precious gifts in our marriage for which, I have been time and again thankful. 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 - and it is to be valued at all cost.

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!