Dear Jack,
I can’t believe my boy died on Valentine’s Day. It seems so cruel although I know he didn’t mean to hurt me.
On the contrary, my friend. It’s true, he never wanted to hurt you. He never will. He does not want to spoil all future Valentine's Days to come -- but what he did was cross on the most significant day of love. To let you know that he leaves you with love and that he will wait until the end of time for you. Your forever Valentine.
Love, Jack
Credits:
About this letter
This short letter is part of Jack McAfghan: Letters From Rainbow Bridge. A reader cannot believe their boy died on Valentine's Day and says it seems cruel, although they know he did not mean to hurt them. Jack's reply offers a different way to see the date.
What Jack says
Jack says that his friend is right that he never wanted to hurt the reader, and never will. He suggests that crossing on the most significant day of love was a way of letting the reader know that he leaves them with love and that he will wait until the end of time for them, as their forever Valentine.
When a loss falls on a special date
Losing a pet on a birthday, holiday or other special date can make that day hard every year. Some people choose to turn it into a day of remembrance, with a favourite treat, a candle or a visit to a place the two of you loved. Others prefer a quiet day. There is no right way, and it can change from year to year.
Looking for support
If dates like this stir up strong grief, talking to someone who understands can help. A counselor or a pet loss support group can offer a safe space to share how you feel.
