Lindy Hop

As I have mentioned before, I volunteer at the local animal shelter.  While there, I meet many wonderful animals with very distinct personalities. 
Recently, I had the privilege to meet Lindy, a spaniel mix. As I went to walk her, I noticed that her hind legs didn't work very well, and would collapse under her frequently.  Yet, until I had her on the lead, I would never have known.  Up until then, all I saw was a wonderfully happy, bright dog, that just oozed gratitude for being alive.  Even when she struggled to walk, or when she messed herself, she was vibrant, trembling with excitement and sheer joy, and her eyes just twinkled.  This was a dog that was so happy to be on this earth, spinal injuries and kidney troubles and all.
She found a wonderful foster mother to take her home, but sadly, it turns out that Lindy's happiness was an amazing, yet heartbreaking, front of fortitude and strength.  Her troubles were worse than we all realized, and she died in her foster family's loving arms this afternoon.
Although I only knew her for a short time, her life was a testament to me that we must be grateful for the time we have on this planet, that happiness and strength can be found, even in seemingly insurmountable circumstances.  It makes you think--if she can do it, so can I.  The lessons we can learn from the animals and creatures in our lives, no matter how meek or small.
Rest in peace, my Lindy Hop, and I thank God for the foster who provided you such a loving home in your last days.