November reminds us to take time to reflect on what we are thankful for. This year, as usual, photographs were at the top of my list. Photographs have the power to take us back in time. They let us relive special times and feel close to loved ones. They hold a very special place in many people’s hearts. In fact, when asked what they would save in a fire, most people list photographs in their top 5. For me personally, they are one of my most valued possessions. I don’t obsess over many “things” in my life – the people in my life are far more important than any “thing”. However, photographs are special in the way that they link us to the important people of our past. Some of my favorite images are irreplaceable because they contain family, friends, and pets that I’ve had to say goodbye to. When I look at those pictures, I can feel the moment and I find great comfort in that.
After many, many wonderful years together, we said goodbye to our pug, Oscar. It’s actually been about a month, but I just couldn’t bring myself to edit the photos until now. We knew it was his time, and we did not want to prolong any suffering, so we sat down as a family the night before and said goodbye. I instinctively grabbed my camera. I want to always remember my boys’ connection with their furry brother. My youngest was the closest to Oscar. Oscar was “his boy” he would say. He was heartbroken, but showed his understanding by flashing the camera a thumbs up. I envy the way children grieve – they allow themselves to move through the grief cycle with so much less tension than adults. Both boys (and Mom and Dad) were comforted knowing Oscar would be free from pain and in a better place.
I will forever cherish my photos of Oscar, as well as the photos of our dog, Dox, who we lost 3 1/2 years ago. Pictures of my loved ones and memories of days gone by fill photo albums and sit in special frames throughout my house. They are priceless to me. I am so thankful for the memories I can hold not only in my heart but also in my hand.
