While the original author hasn’t been confirmed, The Rainbow Bridge, is a poem and concept that has brought solace to many who are grieving the loss of a beloved furry family member. It is a unique and well circulated poem for pet loss support. This week I am sharing the poem, in the hopes that it brings you comfort and peace.
“The Rainbow Bridge”
By the edge of a woods, at the foot of a hill,
Is a lush, green meadow where time stands still.
Where the friends of man and woman do run,
When their time on earth is over and done.
For here, between this world and the next,
Is a place where each beloved creature finds rest.
On this golden land, they wait and they play,
Till the Rainbow Bridge they cross over one day.
No more do they suffer, in pain or in sadness,
For here they are whole, their lives filled with gladness.
Their limbs are restored, their health renewed,
Their bodies have healed, with strength imbued.
They romp through the grass, without even a care,
Until one day they start, and sniff at the air.
All ears prick forward, eyes dart front and back,
Then all of a sudden, one breaks from the pack.
For just at that instant, their eyes have met;
Together again, both person and pet.
So they run to each other, these friends from long past,
The time of their parting is over at last.
The sadness they felt while they were apart,
Has turned into joy once more in each heart.
They embrace with a love that will last forever,
And then, side-by-side, they cross over… together.
~Author Unknown
A similar sentiment that I once read by an unknown author is:
One day all the pets we’ve ever loved will come running towards us.
That will be a very good day.
I love this affirmation of reconnection and enduring love. Love is eternal and I believe that applies to the bonds of love we share with our furry family members too. While I can’t say with any certainty what happens when we ourselves pass away, I do feel overwhelming glee at the idea that I am met by my joyful menagerie, tails wagging and purr-factories running at full steam. Now isn’t that a lovely thought?
In Comfort,
Annie Ballantine
Are you looking for pet loss grief support? The Biscuit and Bertie Comfort Box includes thirty Grief Support Cards that affirm your feelings, help you process your emotions, and recount fond memories. It’s also a perfect and meaningful gift for a friend who has lost a pet.
