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I’m just in awe, everything from the etheral quality of the day to having the place to yourself with the Monks and the dogs.

I’m praying that the “hole in your heart” where a dog used to be is healing.

Thanks again for the sentiments and the encouragement. The monks guide that master to use their dog as a touchstone or doorway to relate to all creation, and by learning, or at least striving to view life through the eyes and psyche of another creature, we get outside ourselves and enhance our relationships with our fellow man.

Our society has lost sight of the virtuosity of humility, which simply means a groundedness and ability to observe and accept one's proper place in the big picture...Timber was a big part of me, but as the monks write:

"Do the bonds of relationship extend beyond this life? We have no proof, one way or another. But there is a depth to our experience that awakens faith, faith that in the mysterious character of life ultimately nothing of real value will ever be lost. Our closest relationships, both with humans and with dogs, somehow point beyond themselves, leading us to hope that there is indeed something of the eternal present in them."

I think there's a good chance I'll be seeing my Timber again :-)