Levi
September 1997--April 2009
September 1997--April 2009
This Friday evening was a very sad day in the Benediktsson family. Our longtime friend and faithful companion Levi passed away after a long adventure-filled life. In the end, his passing was quiet and dignified, and we felt blessed to be able to spare him from a protracted and painful battle with liver cancer--but that didn't make the decision that we had to make any easier.
Levi joined our family shortly before Christmas of 1997, when we were young, foolish and unprepared for the challenges of dog ownership. In a way, he taught us as much as we taught him about life with a canine companion. We learned to be good leaders; to lead firmly and consistently without malice or anger. We learned to be patient; to breathe deeply and enjoy the moments of bliss that may be found in simple things. Above all, we learned that no earthly pleasure is greater than swimming, running, or chasing a tennis ball--and that no earthly comfort is more valuable than friendship itself. We also learned that true friendship requires no speech: togetherness is its own language, and Levi communicated to us his love and devotion every day of his life, in a language that if one but stoops to listen, contains within it a magical, mute poetry of great power and great import.
He was brave and stoic to the end. We learned of his illness only when he could not conceal it from us any longer, and our hearts have been heavy these last eight months, knowing that each one could be the last one that he would share with us. However, our final days with him have been a gift, one we will never forget. He shared with us his companionship; we thanked him by shielding him from suffering.
I think we got the better deal. Levi, you were a better dog than we were owners. We'll always miss you--and if there's one thing we want you to take with you wherever it is that you go, it's this:
Good boy. You did good. Now rest.
Levi joined our family shortly before Christmas of 1997, when we were young, foolish and unprepared for the challenges of dog ownership. In a way, he taught us as much as we taught him about life with a canine companion. We learned to be good leaders; to lead firmly and consistently without malice or anger. We learned to be patient; to breathe deeply and enjoy the moments of bliss that may be found in simple things. Above all, we learned that no earthly pleasure is greater than swimming, running, or chasing a tennis ball--and that no earthly comfort is more valuable than friendship itself. We also learned that true friendship requires no speech: togetherness is its own language, and Levi communicated to us his love and devotion every day of his life, in a language that if one but stoops to listen, contains within it a magical, mute poetry of great power and great import.
He was brave and stoic to the end. We learned of his illness only when he could not conceal it from us any longer, and our hearts have been heavy these last eight months, knowing that each one could be the last one that he would share with us. However, our final days with him have been a gift, one we will never forget. He shared with us his companionship; we thanked him by shielding him from suffering.
I think we got the better deal. Levi, you were a better dog than we were owners. We'll always miss you--and if there's one thing we want you to take with you wherever it is that you go, it's this:
Good boy. You did good. Now rest.
8 comments:
Goodbye, dear Levi. You were so precious. You'll be missed by many people.
I'm so sorry, G&A. We love you!
MJ&R
Sorry to hear about your beloved pooch. It's never easy to lose a valued member of our family.
We will miss Levi and are glad that he had a long and happy life, with a quiet ending surrounded by family.
We're lucky to share our lives with another brown dog who never forgot her first friend Levi, and has never failed to run up to Levi-shaped dogs in parks and on walks hoping it's her old buddy. I remember when both Levi and Louise were so young and foolish and had no idea we would so utterly disrupt their easy grad-school puppyhood with such silliness as babies and dog food for seniors.
I know Louise would hope that wherever Levi is that there is an endless supply of butter for eating that never makes you sick, trashcans that are just for tipping and exploring, and friends to wrestle for hours.
God speed sweet boy!
Love to all of you from the Hudson-Vadnais (especially the hairy, smelly one).
Aw, cyber hugs to you guys! Levi taught us so much too. H loves everybody and is the perfect intro to dog ownership. But I knew we could handle a dog when Levi accepted us when we were dogsitting (it took a couple days, after we’d found his blanket).
Your two dogs had such different personalities, but were the best of buds! Still, despite my initial worries, they accepted my obnoxious little intruder into their pack… and I don’t think I’ve seen her so happy (before or since) as running around your yard barking with them.
I can only imagine how tough this is for your entire family. Please know we continue to think of you while you grieve… and we’re absolutely giving Luna extra scritches!!
Miss you all!
- Ana, Jason & Luna
The loss of a pet breaks your heart as they are such a part of your life. We feel your pain along with you A, G and M. Levi had a great family. Love Tom & Hazel
I remember when Levi was a puppy and joined you two on your journey. Some adventures were had by all! I recall something from many years ago about a whole pound of butter disappearing?!?
I am very sorry for your loss. Levi was lucky to have you as his "pack leaders" for all those fun times and times of friendship.
TJ (and Rocky)
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