My friend Tony Hertz just posted gentle advice from a vet. When a dog has to be put down, they want us with them. I was with Mollie–Molliebears–when Dr. Murphy helped her make that transition.

It was such a painful experience, but it moved me deeply. I at least felt confident, in talking softly to her in those last moments, that she knew how very much we loved her.

When her head fell into my hands, I was disconsolate for the rest of the day. What brought me back is my belief, no matter how irrational it might seem, that we will see each other again. That will be a joy beyond imagining.

Here’s to you, Mollie, our darlin’ Irish girl. We will love you until the end of time, and beyond it, too.

The tears now running down my cheeks are proof of that.