Sophie

On Wednesday night, my puppy was hit by a car and died. I feel kind of silly writing about this and the sorrow that I feel, because she was "just a dog." And yet, she was a loving, sweet being who brightened each of my days. People who have not had pets may not understand the bond that can build with a tender, young puppy who relies on you for all.

I can't believe that she is actually gone. I have had her as a little shadow for the last 6 months. If I was at home, she was with me. If I wasn't in the room she would come and find me. We played hide and seek, tag, and we would have races all the time. I feel so guilty that she was hurt in such a way. My mind continues to have thoughts of "what if..." or "if only..." I can't change what happened. I was naive to let her off her leash, even though no cars were around at the time. She had been good in the past, but you can't ever let that fool you into becoming complacent. I know that it was not my fault, but if I had kept her on her leash she would still be here to brighten every day.

It is interesting how each person's decisions, movements, or actions all seem to collide at some point. There was not a single car around. Sophie has run into the street once because there was another dog on the other side. That night, there was nothing. She stopped at the edge of the street and stepped out at exactly the wrong moment. Seconds later and she would have been fine. Its like the perfect storm, all things coming together to create chaos. Its a mystery.

I never thought I would be quite this sad over a pet. I have always loved animals but the attachment that I had with Sophie was almost like a child. I am fine, but it still hurts. I think the guilt and the quiet are what get me the most.

Although I miss her, I have seen how much my family and friends love me. They are a wonderful support and have shown love and care. My parents rushed over to my house when I called. Both were crying in pain for me. My roommate, Laura Dawn was stunned when I told her. My sister, my brother and Jen all texted me sweet, loving words. I received texts from friends, aunts, cousins, all expressing their love for me.

And I quote... "You run into my room and steal a sock EVERY SINGLE DAY!!"

-Laura Dawn