Hug Your Dogs

In my hour of need, an extraordinary community rallied around me. Friends, neighbors, and strangers alike joined the search, offering their unwavering support, encouragement, and prayers. Together, we formed a united front, scouring every inch of the desert – some virtually by calling in favors with friends who could fly over the crash site in the night hours, others called friends to gather horses in the area to begin a search, and some who actually spent the sleepless night on the side of the interstate highway until the break of dawn when we could resume the search – until finally, a collective sigh of relief swept through the air. Tobie had been found, weary but miraculously unharmed. The overwhelming sense of gratitude and love that enveloped us all is impossible to put into words.

From this life-altering experience, I learned invaluable lessons that forever changed my perspective. Firstly, gratitude became the guiding force in my life. I realized the immeasurable value of what I still had, despite the profound loss I experienced. Every breath, every sunrise, and every wag of Tobie’s tail became reminders of life’s blessings. It is through gratitude, and her hugs, that we find solace and strength to navigate the darkest moments.

Moreover, I discovered the immense healing power of love and community. Friends and strangers, bound together by a shared purpose, provided comfort, support, and empathy. Their presence in my life reminded me that we are not alone in our struggles. They nurtured my shattered spirit, allowing me to rebuild piece by piece. Together, we embarked on a journey of healing, recognizing the importance of connection and compassion.