"In Memoriam" **Lion's Roar for June**

 

My sincere thanks to all who expressed their sympathy on the recent passing of my beloved cat, Shalimar.  I truly appreciate the words and cards of condolences.

Shalimar rescued me in June of 2005.  I was living in Columbia, Missouri at the time.  We do not know Shalimar’s full history before she came to the shelter.  The Vet believes Shalimar was around one year old at the time I adopted her.  So, while my heart is broken, I am grateful for the almost 20 years we had together.

LBC, Little Bombay Cat, as I often called her, was a shy yet sweet and affectionate cat.  She loved to come up on my bed in the morning and at night to be petted and told how beautiful and what a good girl she was.  Sometime, during the night, she would surprise me by jumping up on the bed and letting out a soft “meow” to let me know she was there.

Our animal companions bring us so much joy, companionship, and love.  The Rectory feels empty without her presence, even though LBC did not take up much space.  Cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, and our other furry friends teach us unconditional love and acceptance.  In that way, they are mirrors of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness.

I firmly believe that we will see our beloved pets in heaven when it is our time.  They will be among the first to welcome us, tails wagging and purrs roaring.  How could animals, with their pure hearts, constant devotion, and self-less love, not have a special place in God’s eternal kingdom?

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