I am just crushed and saddened beyond words. What a shock to us all. Oh Hon, your heart must be shattered to pieces. I am so, so sorry. I know you are in pain, we can read it in every word you write. It's so hard to understand why things happen the way they do sometimes. The only comfort is that sweet Lily did not die alone in a cold, scary, shelter, blind, smelling the stench of disease and death all around her. You fed her empty belly, and washed away the awful smells that stuck to her fur and nostrils. You cut away the painful mats and soothed her nerves with your soft touch and warm lap. Instead of cold concrete, she had a nice, soft place to lay her tired little body. Her little tail, tucked low, now wagged happily. Although people misunderstood her as a vicious dog, you saw her as she really was, sweet, alone and frightened. Really, isn't that what we all want in life? We all want to be loved, to be "special" to someone, to have a little home, a safe harbor from the storms of life, some good food to eat and an occasional little treat. You WERE her hero, and her angel. Your love and care made sweet Lilie's last days on earth carefree and happy. She didn't have to worry anymore. She could just rest and relax, and enjoy the sweetness that life is supposed to give. I am so very sorry for your loss. I am sad for all of us who lost a little darling that captured and impacted our hearts when we read her story here. I'm so sad and sorry she was taken away from you prematurely, and I'm sorry for your pain and grief, but I'm happy that she was with you. You did a noble thing. You gave your love to the weak and defenseless. You taught us all not to judge a (vicious) book by it's cover. You saw a diamond in the rough. You gave a voice to one that had no voice. Regardless of what choices you make about future pups, Lilie did have a purpose, and I would venture to say that others here may take a chance and love an unlovable because of YOU and HER. I'm sad and sorry for your loss. Our hearts are broken too. I know mine is. Gentle hugs
