So fresh and new is this pain, it is difficult to write this without tears. I know we are not alone.
Jake was not just a best friend, he was family to John and I.
At first I thought it corny to choose the song for his tribute. Then I realized not only did I perform this song years ago at a talent show, but the phrase
“since I found you…” was appropriate.
However it would not be John or me who found Jake. Jake found and adopted us years ago. Neglected and wandering the neighborhood, Jake came pawing at our door in the middle of a cold, wet winter. We opened the door and he came in purring and weaving about our ankles. Then, he headed straight to the kitchen, sat down and meowed.
After eating, he jumped up on the couch between the two of us and plopped down purring.
Soon, after giving him much love and belly rubs, he climbed onto my lap and nestled in as if to say,
“I am home and this is my lap.”
John was still skeptical, unsure of how to relate to a cat. Jake had him trained quickly. Perhaps it was because Jake had more wisdom than the two of us. He knew just what to do to get John’s attention. It did not take long.
John fell in love with this extraordinary cat. Soon, Jake had a permanent sleeping spot right next to John. Every night, without fail, Jake would follow us up to bed and assume his reserved spot. He would even look at me with disdain if I moved him a bit. In that way, and many others, Jake made us laugh so much.
Jake could communicate his feelings and wishes through special meows and certain looks he gave us.
Unlike many cats, Jake was easily trainable. Working together with me, he quickly learned how to sit on command and also to ‘stay’. He was training me at the same time…patience, perseverance, love.
We (actually Jake) became popular with our visitors who would gape at him in disbelief when he followed a command. One friend asked, “How long did it take for Jake to train you how to do that?” Clever, but true.
Jake taught us more than we taught him. He brought John and I closer as we learned to care for him together. He was the most gentle of God’s creatures who I have ever had the blessing of knowing. Friendly and affectionate, he immediately won over the hearts of anyone he met.
Unfortunately, Jake was recently diagnosed with a particularly invasive and aggresive form of cancer. The tumor was rendered ‘inoperable’ and spreading at an alarming rate. Surgery and medication were a moot point as we were told he most likely would not survive either. The oncologist gave him two to six months.
The doctors told us that Jake would let us know when he was ready. After only nine weeks, Jake let us know.
We made the most difficult decision…to put him to sleep before his life was painful and unlivable. It is one of the hardest decisions we had to make.
Jake died yesterday; put peacefully to sleep as John and I held him, talking to him the whole time. Even after he was gone, a light remained in his eyes. We spent some more time with him, just stroking his fur, saying good-bye.
Jake, you came into our lives and made it even more enjoyable, fun, lovable, humorous and when times were tough, more livable. We will never forget you…you are in our hearts forever…we miss you, our friend, our family member.
We will see you when we cross Rainbow Bridge…
We love you, Jake…