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Joshua Murray's avatar

I remember praying Ruby would be found (and reading that article) and cannot believe it was already so long ago. A little over 9 years ago I lost my Callie, who was a part of me. My "puppy" Finn is already over 8 and I think is developing cataracts. I'm no one to tell God what is fair... But I sure hope He agrees that Heaven would be better with such loved creatures. I'm sorry for your loss, and at the same time thankful you got such joy with her.

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

Thank you for being part of the prayers to bring her home. It’s so hard to lose them. I’m glad we got more years with her.

Charles Meadows's avatar

So sorry KSP...

"And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you." Is 46:4

Wendy Davis's avatar

I'm so sorry to hear about Ruby. What a wonderful and loving dog she must have been. As I read about her, it brought to mind our sweet Laddie, a border collie who came to us after receiving his sheep dog training. We didn't have sheep, but we did have 3 small children which Laddie diligently herded around our yard. He was the most wonderful, sweet dog, so I pictured him as I read about Ruby. We still mourn for him many years after he died on one very sad Father's Day. May our loving Father comfort you and continually bring to mind sweet memories of dear Ruby.

Teri Hyrkas's avatar

Oh Karen! I am so sorry to hear this. May God give you comfort and peace, and help you, Roy and Eva, too, as your lives change. Fill their hearts with love and wonderful memories of Ruby, Lord. Amen.

Gina Dalfonzo's avatar

Oh Karen, I'm sorry. Mourning sweet Ruby with you.

Dona Barker's avatar

You’re going to want to read Randy Alcorn’s new book coming out in November!

All God’s Creatures: What the Bible Says About Animals, Heaven, and the New Earth

The Symphony's avatar

thank you for posting this

Amy Sondova's avatar

Karen. I am so sorry.

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

Thank you, Amy.

Daniel L. Bacon's avatar

I'm so sorry for your loss--I love your response from your roundtable in 2012. I never know what to say when people ask, but tying it into your theology of what heaven actually is brings me peace about all the pets we've lost.

My first real loss was our family dog to old age in my first year of Bible College when I was 19: Chesnut Chewbacca Bacon. Mom and Dad brought her home when I was 5 years old, and my sense of loss was devastating-- especially since I couldn't be there when it happened.

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

It’s a loss so unlike any other.

Daniel L. Bacon's avatar

It is.

Carole Duff's avatar

What a blessing you were to Ruby, and she a blessing to you and others.

Susan Wise Bauer's avatar

Still missing my guy Mars, four years after he died. Thinking of you.

Catherine Martin's avatar

I'm so sorry. May her memory be a blessing.

Elaine O’Connor's avatar

No words … except that my heart is with yours. 🙏💔🙏

Churchlady320's avatar

She was beautiful and joyous. Even God's most beloved is allowed to "hate the cone of shame". I don't blame her! We are blessed by alliance with a creature that loves without want, is eternally forgiving of our flaws, and makes us feel wanted and worthy without asking much back. She was all that, and what does existence ask of living creatures more than that? Hold her in your heart. We will hold you in ours. Peace.

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

Such a blessed alliance. Holding her and being held. 🤍

Steve Talas's avatar

So sorry for your loss, interesting to note how John Nelson Darby in his New Translation, uses the word 'Souls' to describe the animal creation. If mosaic law went to lengths over the proper treatment of a birds nest found in the middle of the road, I think dogs are in the package for that great day when creation's groan is finally answered.

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

I did not know that about Darby’s translation. Such good insights. Thank you.

Amy Fritz's avatar

I didn't understand before having a dog of my own how deep and real love for a pet could be. They are delightful and infuriating and so special. I'm sorry for the loss of Ruby. Thank you for sharing her with us.

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

Thank you, Amy. I’m glad you now know this love. 🤍

Kris Camealy's avatar

I’m so sorry to hear this. These reflections are so lovely. She was a very good girl. ❤️❤️❤️

Karen Swallow Prior's avatar

A very good girl.