The Remarkable Gift | Tully's Story
11/17/2018, 4:44p you were set free...a day and time I always dreaded and so wish was still in the distant future. But no more pain my boy, no more pain. I can't stop thinking of you, I can't stop missing you. I can let others know about you. I can tell some of your story...
Tully was born on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 2008. The breeder gave Irish names to the whole litter and Tully was his name and we wouldn't change it. It was his name and it was perfect! When we first met the litter, all the pups were so cute, funny and playful. One was a bit thicker and hungrier than the others but so so sweet. That was Tully. We quickly took to him and I immediately bonded. After several visits, he was the one for us. I whispered to him then and there that I was for him and he for me. Weird, I know! But very true. I just knew this and I believe he knew. Turns out, we weren't the first pick in the litter, we were somewhere in the middle. Tully was chosen by another family. I was sad but somehow knew that was not the end of our story. As it turns out, situations changed and they made another selection which allowed us to pick Tully. So, ironically he chose us in an inexplicable way.
Tully was born with significant hip dysplasia in both rear legs and once we discovered this at about 6 months, the solution from the breeder was to take him back and have him put down. After all, she said, what kind of life will he be able to live? And a wonderful, happy life he did live full of love , life, treats, bones to chew and constant attention from all of us! Tully was a very happy, loving and beautiful dog. He brought immense joy to all of us and we are forever grateful and changed by having the time with him. He was our remarkable gift.
Over more than the last decade I've spent nearly every day, and the most part of those days, with this awesome companion. Always by my side. We took a walk every day, rain or shine and we loved every second of it until he couldn't make it anymore. Then we spent more time at the house, a bit more low key but together and doing what he could out in the backyard. I loved him and he loved me!
We can all learn so much from our pets and Tully showed me so many things. He didn't teach me these things, just showed me. You see, I haven't yet learned nearly enough of what Tully just was. And these are some of his lessons for me:
Courage
Never afraid to try. Never afraid to get back up. Against all odds that pup showed us the spirit to live and the courage to just do it regardless of pain and disability.
Friendship
Oh boy, what a friend. A best friend! Not only to me but to all of us. Right or wrong, happy or sad, Tully would not judge but stand by me, lay down at my feet and show he cared and was there no matter what.
Presence
Tully was always there, present and focused on the here and now without concerns of things past or future. Only living life as it really is, which is now. What a gift to live moment to moment in full presence of life.
Dignity
Tully was a shining example of personal dignity. Never having "accidents" and while even needing to literally drag himself up, Tully would do it and get out to the yard.
Loyalty
There couldn't be a more loyal companion. Tully chose us and that was that. He would always be there, always stand with you. Never stray. Always at the door when you come home.
Joy
Tail wagging happiness for everything and everyone in life. No matter the circumstances, joyful always! That was Tully. Despite disabilities and pain, he was just wired to be a happy, happy boy. The joy of life.
Grace
On your final day, and you showed Grace over the pain and suffering. You tried over and over and finally let us know it was time and that you would be ok. You looked at me and I saw it in your eyes. Finally, you let go peacefully and gracefully no longer in pain.
Love
Above all is love. Pure, without judgment and true. Wonderful love. Love that could obviously not be spoken by you but love that was unmistakable and could not be denied. You truly loved us all and we felt that . We truly loved you and I know you felt that as well.
One day, if God see's fit to allow me into heaven, I'll be with you again my boy. We can play, take a walk and have lots of treats again. I know this is where I'll find you because all dogs go to heaven. Especially you my sweet, sweet Tully. I miss you so much.
