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Dealing with Tragedy

by on February 10, 2004


Sunday was a terrible day. My husband walked outside, and our beloved German Shepherd Aster followed him. But instead of going with Howard into the office built behind our garage, Aster dashed into the street and was killed (right in front of our house) by a car.

We were all devastated. My two kids were so sad, that they didn’t go to school on Monday. I let them stay home, which is not something I do lightly.

But to put it all in perspective, on Sunday we had a computer repair man at our house. His five-year old son has leukemia. Yes, every loss hurts … and I know it is normal to mourn the death of a family pet, but his family is dealing with real danger. Although it didn’t help my kids, it certainly struck Howard and I that our kids are our real treasure. And as long as they are okay, there’s really nothing of significance to complain about.

On another trivial note, my computer power supply died on Sunday. I learned a few things about backing up, which I will share at another time. Yes I did have a backup, but it wasn’t so easy to get my files re-installed on another computer. But that’s a rant for some other day.

{ 28 comments }

Paula May 14, 2008 at 10:15 am

Hello, so sorry about Aster, I know how you are feeling,my little grandog McGraw, a little white and brown jack russell loved to run and run he did to his death……He was hit by a hit and run driver, never stopped, within eyesight of his house,,,,,Two little angels stopped and picked him up and took him to the vet,,,,My daughter in law called me cause she babysits kids and couldn’t go there, so I did and so did my son, It was his dog that she had bought for him………We had to take him to the vet hospital and they gave him blood transfusions and tried everything but he died in front of all of us………IT HURTS SO BAD, I can’t tell you how bad I hurt………I cry alot over little McGraw,,,he was the sweetest cuddliest little pup you’d ever want………He just loved everyone……..and such a horrible way to die………..We were about to put him down but my son said to him…Hey buddy, just please die so I don’t have to make that decision and within 10 minutes he died…….and my son thanked him so much………..His chest was so bruised, the vet said that he really got hit hard………….I’m sorry for you Maybe you could e-mail me and we can keep in touch,,,,,,,thanks Paula,,,,,,,princesso301@yahoo.com

June February 26, 2004 at 7:32 am

Barbara, I too have lost a child and can understand the pain of loss. No matter how big our personal hurt may be, it is something that we will be able to handle. As a family that lives and loves together, you are a family that will be able to heal together. Knowing that our loved ones, pets included, may be able to go one with us forever; even if only in our hearts; makes a loss somewhat easier to deal with.
My prayers are with you and your family at this time of loss.
June in SoCal

Shari February 18, 2004 at 3:23 pm

I want to express my greatest sympathy on the loss of your loving Aster. I lost my Sparky two months ago and understand the deep loss you must feel. I tried to understand why this loss so devastated me and I finally determined that in life a dog loves you like no other being. He/she is there to release the tensions and stresses of each day without a list of demands in return. I also found the loss of this loyal and true friend reminded me of the losses I had experienced in the past. Yes, acknowledge that others have struggles of their own that are great but in no way should that make the loss of Aster any less than it is to you. My children each grieve the loss of Sparky in a unique way. This experience has allowed us to talk about differences at a whole new level. Be good to yourself and your family.

Miriam February 16, 2004 at 11:13 am

I’m really sorry about your dog, I lost my lovely Rottweiller last year under strange circumstances (It seems she was poisoned) and remembering her still hurts me bad. The death of a loved one regardless if it’s a family member, friend or pet is tough to deal with..I hope you and your kids overcome the loss soon…….Thanks for your lovely website..regards….Miriam.

Rebecca February 14, 2004 at 2:10 pm

I’m so sorry to hear about the furry memeber of your family passing :( Blessings to your family and here’s to hoping your hearts heal quickly.
Yes, it’s indeed always to remember that there is someone else who has things worse than you.That’s what I always try to tell myself during the rought times! :)

Jill February 13, 2004 at 6:06 am

Barbara, I am so sorry to hear about the death of Aster. I am, and always will be, a huge animal love and in addition to having my own pets, work with several rescue groups. Remember that Aster knew how much you loved him, and many animals never get a glimpse of that kind of love from anyone. I’m sure he’s probably relating wonderful stories about ‘his family’ to the other cats, dogs, and pets that have already crossed the Rainbow Bridge. You are also so true in stating that our children are a precious gift that we need to cherish daily. Please take care & know that thoughts are with you.

Lois Carter Fay February 13, 2004 at 5:43 am

Barbara,
Oh my. I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Thank you for sharing with us. I, too, recently lost a pet suddenly and it was quite a sad shock. Like you, I am very grateful that my family is healthy.
Peace & Light,
Lois Carter Fay

Tammy February 12, 2004 at 8:18 pm

Barbara,
It is hard to lose a pet because they are like a part of the family. I could not agree with you more about cherishing your children’s health and well being. Life is short and we should all live each day to the fullest. Our son was kidnapped and we were very blessed to have him returned unscathed.
God Bless

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