"Love Letter to Sassy"
Catherine asked me to do a painting about her beloved
dog, Sassy, who had just recently passed away. I
talked to Catherine for a couple of hours about how
much Sassy had meant to her, and why she missed
her so. Sassy had been a constant companion to her
and her daughter, Ashleigh, for 13 years.
I thought about our discussion, and her devotion to
Sassy. The heartfelt words of love she shared with
me about her dog, began to distill themselves in my
head. The letter, which I imagined her writing to
Sassy, is based on our conversation that afternoon,
and is now incorporated into the painting, encircling
Catherine, Ashleigh and Sassy.
"Dear Sassy,
I love you so much. I can't believe that you are gone...and then I remember that you
are not really gone at all. You will always be with us because love never disappears!
Your love for us is strong and everlasting. Thank you for your steadfast loyalty.
Thank you for your wisdom. I remember the days when your silent eyes spoke to
me, encouraged me to remember my true soul. What comfort your gave willingly
through the years you shared with us. I miss you. How can I miss you and at the
same time know you are still with me? My tears and smiles mingle equally. Am I
strong enough to accept our infinite connection of love? Through my love for
you I discover my bravery and with this bravery I say, "Yes, I accept!" Dear Sassy
you are a gift from the heavens. Love Catherine and Ashleigh."
