| In December, 2013, Roger, my golden retriever, and I embarked on the world of pet therapy with a visit to the priests and brothers at the Oblates of St. Frances de Sales in Childs, Maryland. For several years, we met at 10:00 on Tuesday mornings for coffee and extended visits. We fell into a comfortable rhythm with three men in particular: Father Sarro, Brother John, and Father George. But, as often happens, those we love leave, and we are left with both the joy of remembrance and the sorrow of loss. In November, 2020, Ivy, my English Labrador Retriever puppy, and I made a return visit to the Oblates, where I introduced her to Father George. This time, he and I sat six feet apart wearing protective masks. He had prepared a cup of coffee for me, and set out water in a large cookie tin for Ivy. We caught up; he told stories. We laughed; we sat in silence. At my last visit, Roger wore a support-harness; at this visit, Father George used a walker. As is his custom, Father George walked us back to our car. Along the way we stopped in the small cemetery where Brother John is buried. Life changes, but some things remain: friendship, connection, and the healing power of a puppy. Adapted from an article originally published in the PAWS for People Community Newsletter: Late November, 2020 |
