Faith

From Reflections, Chapter 4:

Sometime that same year, [he] mentioned that at some point he would have his own dog – a female husky – and he would name her Faith. Needing to be free from that sort of responsibility, I stressed that another dog was not in my future. He set the record straight. This would be his dog, and she would be going to college with him when he could live off campus. This I pondered.

…

Toward the end of that first year in college, I received another phone call. This one was full of excitement, for, you see, he had found a husky puppy for sale. She was the last one left in the litter. She was reasonably priced, and she only needed to stay at my house during the summer because she would, of course, be returning to school with [him] in the fall. Of course, he needed a little help with the financing of her until he could get home and begin his summer job. And of course, I could not say no. A week later, I received an electronic picture entitled “Lillie.” Upon opening the file, I saw a black and white ball of fur with facial markings resembling a mask and striking blue eyes. I responded with the question, “So she’s Lillie and not Faith?” The counter response was laughter and an adamant, “No, she’s Faith!” A month later, [he] and baby Faith came home. This I pondered.

Oh the plans we make, not knowing what really awaits us around the bend.”

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Baby Faith

It’s another year later … The ring rarely leaves my finger – another symbol – and Faith is fully grown – a beautiful blue-eyed college lady … and I still ponder.”

…

Thirteen years of Faith, thirteen years of walking in faith for a specific purpose, thirteen years of joy. Today we mourn a loss but know she was sent for a purpose and fulfilled her calling. Now we stand on our own and continue the walk. Thank you, Faith. We have loved and you have loved us better in return. We were, and are, indeed blessed.