Angel

I am a 47 year old man who was brought up in an age where "men are men" and don't show emotions. We got Angel for our daughter for Christmas in 2001. Our daughter was 7 at the time and wanted nothing else but a puppy. We got her a chow/border collie mix and even though she was solid black with a purple tongue, Maddi (my daughter) insisted on calling her "Angel." I never imagined how appropriate that name was until now.

Angel was tragically killed this past week by a car in front of our house. I never thought I could love an animal as much as I loved Angel. She was with me 24/7 and just exuded love all the time. She was with me in times of happiness as well as sadness. But regardless of what kind of day I was having, I always knew I could come home to a loving Angel. It's hard for me to imagine that anyone else could love a dog as much as I loved Angel, but I am sure there are many others like me who feel the same.

After she died, I cried a lot with my wife at my side, and I still have an empty hole in my heart. The hurt is still so fresh and I am not sure if it will ever subside, but I know my daughter was a much wiser person than me when she named her Angel because she was an angel, always making me feel safe and fulfilled. I still have trouble accepting the fact that she is gone but I am a religious person and have prayed to God to help me understand and accept this loss.

Angel changed so many lives. My son who was 9 years old was afraid of dogs and didn't think we should get one. She completely changed him with her unconditional love and playfulness. Now, my son loves dogs and was in love with Angel.

I know our house will someday be filled with another puppy and although I know that puppy will not replace Angel, I feel I have love that I lost that another puppy could have. I will forever love my Angel. With her death she showed me that it's ok to cry and show emotions.

She changed me for the better and for that I cannot thank her enough.