My older sister Ann passed on this week and rather than make myself crazy with everything I am called to do, I decided to share a post I wrote many years ago instead. It was, and is, a simple and SMART reminder for us all.
Kloe
This week Thom and I experienced a dramatic reminder of this truth—don’t take anyone for granted and share your love with those you love every single day. While most all of us would agree that this is an important part of SMART Living, everyone—me included, can use a reminder
Our “lesson” in this regard came this past Monday evening. There was nothing special about the day—nothing bad, but nothing amazingly wonderful either. We’d finished dinner and Thom was in the kitchen doing dishes. I could see that the sun had finally set so I knew it would be getting cooler outside. Our small mixed-terrier Kloe was watching me closely to see if it was time to go to the dog park before dark. But before we did, Thom decided to take the garbage out to the trash bins with Kloe trailing behind.
Like I said, it seemed just like any other day. That was until just as Thom was coming back into the house, Kloe began to cough and gag. Within seconds, Kloe collapsed next to the sliding glass door. Thom scooped her into his arms and her eyes fluttered unconsciously. Holding her like a rag doll, we both called her name over and over, as we frantically wondered what to do.
To make a long, very tense story shorter, we wrapped Kloe in a towel and drove her to the local pet hospital. Fortunately, they took her in and immediately gave her fluids and treated her for anaphylactic shock. While not completely sure, we believe that a wasp or bee stung her and she had a severe allergic reaction. The doctor confirmed that if we hadn’t acted so quickly, Kloe would have died within the hour.
I suppose if you are not a dog person, this story might not be that traumatic. After all, lots of us have experienced loss, or near loss in our lives on a much bigger scale. But although Kloe is a new addition to our family, in the short six months she has been part of our lives, she has completely captured our hearts. In those moments when I thought she died in front of my eyes, I felt my heart breaking.
After a short wait, the vet came out and told us that we could likely expect a full and fast recovery. Still, they wanted to keep her overnight at the hospital under observation. We said our goodbyes to our confused and trembling puppy before heading home to a restless night of sleep. Feeling both relieved and grateful at the same time, Thom turned to me and said, “Just another reminder to never take anything or anyone for granted.” I agree completely.
Kloe is home now and slowly recovering. Barely 12 hours after her collapse she was eating and playing with her toys. We, on the other hand, are watching her like hawks and monitoring her every sigh. Kloe lives in the now, while we are attempting to leave the past behind and follow her lead.
As an optimist, I routinely strive to see the good everywhere and within everyone. However, when something precious is almost lost, we may be tempted to focus on avoiding any possible future losses, rather than resting in the gift of the present. Almost losing Kloe reminds me that is SMART for us all to remember that life is a precious thing, that love is the ultimate treasure, that anything can change in a moment, and that we should always share our love with those we love every moment that we can. Oh, and did I mention, “Never take anyone or anything for granted!”
Okay your turn. Did you take time to appreciate those you love and care about today? Did you tell them you love them? Please join me by sharing your gratitude in the comments below.
Kathy, this is my second time reading and commenting on your blogs. The first blog that I read was “How Pet Owners Can Travel Without Breaking The Bank” which gave me very valuable information on the care of my pets. And as I conclude my reading on this blog, is as I can almost feel how caring and kind-hearted person you are. I have to admit, I am a twenty-five year old student majoring in psychology and sometimes I find myself running against the clock without even acknowledging those who are there for me. My parents, and siblings make up a major part of helping me go through “the college life” noting that I am a first generation college student, and by reading your blog, I’ve realized. I really need sit, relax and thank my family for everything that they do to help me continue my studies. Thank you Kathy!!
Hi Allie! If I can encourage anyone to remember the good in there life and to say Thank you to the people who make their life better then I am happy! I also sincerely hope that you take the time to “sit, relax and thank your family” on a regular basis. And YES to continuing your studies! The world needs more people like you that want to help others. ~Kathy
Kathy, I am so sorry to hear of your sister Ann’s passing. It is so hard to lose a sibling. My heart aches for you.
What a valuable message you have shared today: “don’t take anything for granted and share your love – 365!”
Jude
Thanks again Jude. I have felt such love and support from my readers and that has helped tremendously. ~Kathy
Sorry for your loss, Kathy. We both wish you and Thom strength through this difficult time. As to not taking anything for granted: Amen to that! What a scare with Kloe. I can totally relate (in our case, we lost our two dogs after a scare like this) and I’m glad Kloe fully recovered and is a joy in your lives.
I appreciate every day of my life and am aware of the people and things around me, yet don’t take them for granted. I maintain friendships, don’t ignore anyone I love, and make sure to savor every moment with loved ones. I think that’s a good approach to life.
Hi Liesbet! Thank you. And yes Thom (and Kloe!) are amazing support for me. And good for you for having the awareness to “I appreciate every day of my life and am aware of the people and things around me, yet don’t take them for granted. I maintain friendships, don’t ignore anyone I love, and make sure to savor every moment with loved ones. I think that’s a good approach to life.” May we all do the same. ~Kathy
Hello Kathy
I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. Losing a sibling is like losing a part of ourselves and who we are in the world. Please take care of yourself in the coming months. And yes, I take great care in letting my loved ones and those I care about know I appreciate them.
Thank you for sharing
Laura
Hi Laura. Thank you. I appreciate your comment about losing a sibling because I don’t think I really considered how that does change the narrative of a person’s story until after it happens. ~Kathy
I’m so sorry to hear about your sister, Kathy! Hugs to you and Thom and I appreciate the plea not to take things for granted. With three aging parents over 80 years old in various states of health, our time with them is limited. So important to stay in touch with family and dear friends and celebrate life!
Hi Terri. Thank you. You are very fortunate to have three parents left in your world. You still have a chance to talk to them about memories and share the things you both value and love. Sometimes the physical challenges can be daunting, but if you can still connect with their heart, mind and soul, do it! And may we all find ways to celebrate life. ~Kathy
Richard and I are sending warm hugs your way, Kathy and Thom. Our deepest condolences on the loss of Ann. The story of Kloe is a perfect reminder to be grateful for every single moment, even on the most ‘seemingly ordinary’ days.
Hi Donna! Thank you. I’m happy to say the story with Kloe had a happy ending, but obviously, some don’t. So very important to remember, and celebrate, those we love. ~Kathy
I live in a 55+ community, and there’s a much greater sense of impending risk. One neighbor gets cancer, another the sight in one eye, another the use of a shoulder forever. Bill and I learn so much from each transition, not the least of which is to appreciate the now.
I am so sorry for Ann’s passing.
Hi Lynne. Thank you. I was speaking to a distant aunt I hadn’t talked to in quite a while this past week. I was reminded that it is actually pretty easy for all of us to get busy and let people, and memories and experiences slip away unless we take the time to keep them current. Learning to go with the flow and still find a reason to get out of bed and celebrate life isn’t always easy. But what is the alternative? I don’t EVER want to forget that! ~Kathy
My heart is broken for you Kathy. Please be extra kind to yourself. I love my sisters dearly, even the one that’s a pill. We stay connected daily by group texting. I do tell them I love them but thank you for such an important reminder.
Hi Celia. Thank you. And isn’t love the one thing that matters the most? I believe it is so very important to share that with each other–and most especially those ones who are near and dear. ~Kathy
My sincere condolences Kathy in the loss of your sister! Spend time with the living and tell them you love them, human or animal, is my motto.
Hi Haralee. I know that you are also mourning the loss of your mother. I am very sorry to learn of that as well. I think the reality of death unites us all and learning to find peace even in the midst of it is a skill that will benefit us all. While I don’t ever want to be good at it, I strive to be at peace with it and then hopefully share that peace with others going through the same. May your heart be at peace and you too find the support that you need in the days ahead. ~Kathy
I’m very sorry, Kathy. Wishing you the strength to embrace the unfettered grieving that will ultimately take you to the healing.
Hi Karen. I think the advantage (if that is really the right word?) of a long illness is that it gives us plenty of time to process the experience. And while I doubt it is ever an “easy thing” it does fit into my understanding in a better and more poignant way. Thank you for sharing your condolences. May we all find ways to grieve in our own way. ~Kathy
So sorry to hear about your loss Kathy. Loss is loss. Painful. I hope khloe is still with you for some comfort.
Hi Emily! Yes, Kloe is here sharing her happy self with me every day. What I love most about dogs is their unconditional love AND how they live in the moment. Such an important thing to remember. ~Kathy
Kindest regards at your sister’s death. These are words that help to sustain me – I do not believe that sheer suffering teaches. If suffering alone taught, all the world would be wise, since everyone suffers. To suffering must be added mourning, understanding, patience, love, openness and the willingness to remain vulnerable. Lindberg.
Hi Mona. Thank you. I do know that an experience like this unites us all in ways that we might not always remember. I love the quote and the sentiment. It is much appreciated. ~Kathy
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss, Kathy. Devastating. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you Mindy. Every bit of your support is appreciated! ~Kathy
I was so touched by this post, Kathy. It seems that you are being challenged to the limit right now. I’m so glad that you and Thom support each other, and both value the same things. This is a difficult time for you, but you are very strong. It’s good to know that you have the resources within you to withstand the challenges that have come your way.
Hi Diane! I know everyone grieves in their own way and I suppose that is as it should be. And I do count myself extremely fortunate to have Thom and others to support me. Thank you for your well-wishes. I am feeling very supported by all my online friends. ~Kathy
So sorry for the loss of your sister. Thanks for sharing your childhood pictures – they are special.
Hi Pat. Yes, it was amazing how many photos there were in my family. It was so nice to share a few of my favorites. ~Kathy
Please be good to yourself during this difficult time.
Hi Karen. Thank you. A bit easier every day. ~Kathy
I am sorry for your loss. I can not imagine what it will be like to lose my older sister. Sending you strength and love.
Hi Kelly! Thank you. We had a wonderful celebration of her life yesterday. While healing doesn’t happen overnight, it does happen. ~Kathy