Tributes for Mikey

As you may know from reading my blog below, our furry friend Mikey passed late last week. In the hope that writing about his life would ease the pain of his death, I posted a memorial on my web site.

The response has been overwhelming. I never knew so many people shared the passion and pain of caring for animals. So I’ve decided to post some of the responses, in part to keep his memory alive, but more important, to share the message that caring for animals can highlight the best of our humanity.

These are samples from family, friends and comments on my web site:

“I'm like you, never understood what it could mean. With me, Sophie
is the first pet I really have loved and just the thought of losing her hurts.
So my heart goes out to you and Jennifer.” (Ronn)

“Brian. What a terrific piece. Your description was perfect.” (Tony)

“Brian, this is a great story. I am moved by people losing a member of the family, who happens to be an animal, as we are all Gods’ creatures. The unconditional love from these animals connects them to us in a different way and it’s even harder when we can't really communicate our feelings back and forth. I know this member of your family is at rest.” (Bob)

“Brian. Thanks so very much for sending this heartfelt, humanitarian and lovely email. My sister's cat died this week as well. I can only imagine how you, Molly and Newton will miss Mikey.” (Cathy)

“Brian- this tribute was so great- great memories. I remember first meeting you and for some reason (perhaps your cameraman’s recent experience?), you mentioned being stunned by the sorrow associated with a pet companion’s death. I really think Molly started to open your heart, and it just continued. We are so sorry for your recent loss – it will take some time to adjust. (Linda and Dan)

“I was stunned to hear about Michael Jackson-- but now I’m crying! I am so sad to
hear about Mikey. (Even though the little bugger-- wouldn't ever come sit on my lap!) I'm heart sick over it.” (Michele)

“That made me so sad I’m fighting back tears. It's a terrific story and everyone can relate to that. Being a total cat person I can completely understand.” (Chelsea)

"Don't be surprised if you see him from time to time from the corner of your eye, or perceive him right behind your legs in the kitchen...he'll be with you a long time. It's that love connection with a precious pet. It's magic." (Denise)

"It is always sad to lose a pet. There is something surreal. I often think how sad for animals that the lifespan they enjoy pales to the bloated lifespan we humans get, especially those of us who waste it! Nice posting Brian. I am sorry for your loss." (Andre)

Although I am a long time cat lover and owner, it wasn't until I actually owned a loving devoted dog that I understood the depth of pain one feels when a dog passes. I still miss my last kitty that passed at age 18 a few years ago, but I did not grieve as much for that cat when he passed as for my dog who passed the same year. I think it has to do with the difference between dogs and cats - that being that cats are independent beings and pretty self sufficient, and dogs are all about Master and what he/she desires. (Rebecca)

“Brought tears to my eyes. I am sorry to hear of your loss - and commend you on a beautifully written, heartfelt blog. I have been a dog lover since the day I was born - the family mutt had pups when I was two - giving me a "little brother". Losing them is never easy.” (Doug)

“I am sorry for your loss of Mickey, but he was so fortunate to have had the life that you guys gave him, and is now playing with all the other beloved animals we have all shared.” (Karen)

All wonderful thoughts that show just how important animals can be in our daily lives.

(Brian Banmiller is a national Business Correspondent for CBS News Radio, free lance writer and public speaker. The former television business news anchor in San Francisco can be reached at brian@banmilleronbusiness.com .)