Most live on in our hearts...some remain present forever

I was never certain of the name you were called by the woman that abandoned you and Lola in a horse stall. 

Most important was that I answered that phone hearing the following—you both were almost out of time. 

Out the door in a flash, I found both of you living in a temporary and horrific situation. 

“Never look back,” I said as we walked away from your pasts and into your futures. 

Your story has been shared many times—I will not share it again. 

***This is my private message to you, my angel... 

Your new lives began the moment we walked away—that was in early November 2019. 

Cours—a most unique name for a unique girl. 

Your name was not gender-specific. Despite all your photos in pink and red winter coats, some never understood you were my special girl. 

I came to learn your official name was Cours de Fleur—something I have never shared. 

I never was certain of the name you recognized. 

Was it Cours—or Fleur? 

You answered to the name Cours and that is the one I chose; you blossomed. 

You were the essence of grace and strength, despite the inability to carry your own weight. 

 You had such a strong will to live. You were not done yet.  

We worked 24 hours a day, together as I watched you grow stronger. 

But love is not always enough—you had cancer and other serious health issues— you were 13 years of age. 

Love and prayers can work miracles— I believed you would bless me with more time.  

Lola grew stronger yet never let you out of her sight. Somehow, she knew. You were lifetime companions. 

Your years of neglect caught up and overtook all the progress you had made.  

You declined so rapidly in 2 days' time.  

You were given a peaceful exit at home with the help of a hospice veterinarian. 

Cours— Lola is safe, loved, and happy – she never leaves my side. Every so often I find her looking at me – seeking reassurance I imagine. 

You crossed the Bridge on February 18, 2020, now free from the pain we tried valiantly to manage. For that, I am grateful. 

We all feel your presence, most often in the stillness of the night—and I continue to grieve. 

“We have a secret, you and I, that know no one else shall know, 

For whom, but I, can see you lie, each night, in fire glow? 

Who, but I, can reach my hand before we go to bed, and feel the loving warmth of you, and touch your silken head? 

And only I walk woodland paths and see ahead of me, your small form racing with the wind. 

So young again and free. And only I can see you swim in every brook I pass... 

And, when I call, no one but I can see the bending grass...”—Unknown 

 #coursandlola #lovewithoutmeasure #lesleyonlinkedin 

#doglovers

September 26, 2020