Making It Easier, If only I could believe Options

[russ1956]

I have been here for 4 days now. There is something that I must discuss. I have received wonderful support from everyone on this site. Many of the comments refer to our beloved pets being young and out of pain since the have now reached the bridge (dog heaven). My problem is that I have never believed in a heaven or a hell. I have believed when you die, your are reduced to ashes and bones and that is the end of that. I have never really discussed my feelings with anyone regarding this. Even my wife of 18 years doesn't really know. She just knows that i won't go to church with her on Sunday. I don't mean for this to be a policitial debate or inflict my feelings on anyone, quite the contrary. I wish that I could believe becuase I would make it so much more comforting to know that my Rosa is safe. My feelings on this issue have never been real strong, it's just something that I have believed from the time I was a teenager. Again, I'm not looking to change anyones feelings or anything like that, just that it is harder to cope with my beliefs. I have been wanting to write this since the first time I saw a comment about the bridge. I see such comfort in those that do believe that I just wish I could. Please don't be angry with me for expressing my feelings, I'm actually a pretty good person and have respect for all. Thanks for listening. Rusty

[russ1956]

Thank you for all of your replies. I feel so much better that this is off of my chest. Now I can continue the grieving process without feeling like I am a bad person. I am realizing that we all hurt, that is the common bond. Each person deals with their recovery differently. The main thing is that we support each other and show love and compassion. I'm starting to ramble so I'll end now. Thanks again. Rusty