Out of ten messages I sent to various rescue groups and foster homes, your foster was the first to respond. She said you were taken from a kill shelter just hours away from being put down. A concerned shelter worker recognized your spirit and immediately called her - already over capacity - pleading to save you.

She spoke of how you were an amazing individual and how I would fall in love with you instantly. She assured me if things did not work out, you always had a home with the foster; I had thirty days to decide.

I knew from the moment we met thirty days would never happen. I was willing to do anything to make this work. Although you ran and hid when she brought you to me, you found the strength to trust me and eventually come out from wherever you were.

It was the first night you stayed with me. I was awakened instantly with sounds I thought were cries of pain or fear. As I jumped to my feet and stumbled for a light switch to see if you were alright, I looked down and saw your gleaming blue eyes and beautiful face. You had your favorite ball in your mouth and you wanted to play. At 2am, you wanted to play; of course I gave in!

Only three short years had passed when they told me your fate was sealed. I would do anything for you: my best friend. I drained every account I had and I took you to anyone I thought could help. I made you angry with me in the process, but a virus was taking over your young life and I did not know what to do. In the end we lost.

Our time together was magical. You were with me through everything. You were my co-pilot in physical form, and always will be spiritually.

While you contemplated the existence of squirrels, birds, and chipmunks outside our office - I contemplated research papers and hours of calculus.

You made sure we both took breaks from our important research by putting your paw on my shoulder or bringing me your ball so we could play fetch.

Now you are with me everywhere. You no longer have to wonder what it is I do, or where it is I go, when I leave through the door you always thought led to some kind of magical room.

You are forever in the magical room and you are forever with me….