Mo

Nancy was concerned about Mo, her 10 year old German Shepherd. Mo’s hind end had grown weak, so much so that her harness could barely keep her upright.  Her body showed signs of wasting and her world was getting smaller and smaller. 

Was it Mo’s time to go? What did she want?

Nancy called me for help. I began by showing her a simple exercise to help release anxiety so she could be present and think more clearly. It is normal to be anxious facing the uncertainty of life and death.

I suggested various comfort measures for Mo and gave Nancy a clearer sense of how Mo was feeling. One of the most significant tools I believe in is in writing a letter based on a protocol I developed through guidance. It is a meaningful and cathartic exercise. The letter leads to the clarity of knowing what to do next.

Nancy wrote the letter, which helped her face her fears and understand her feelings. She released feelings of guilt—feelings she had not revealed before. She realized not just how much she loved Mo, but what Mo had taught her. 

Nancy gave Mo permission to leave her body, which allowed Mo to take the next step. They spent the evening together with a sense of calm.

The next morning, Nancy awoke to find that Mo had died peacefully in her sleep. It’s truly amazing to see how quickly Mo left—how powerful the energy of words can be.

Now the grieving and sadness was facing Nancy. It’s the flip side of love. Each of us faces death and dying in unique ways. The process is not linear.  But there are things we can do that are helpful.

I suggested to Nancy that she create an alter as a tribute to honor the spirit of Mo. She took her time with this, placing picture, Mo’s collar, prayers, and other things that were meaningful to both of them.

Nancy buried Mo was in the backyard. She lovingly wrapped her in a treasured quilt and placed in a handmade box. I was there for the ceremony.