Your loved one is deeply hurting. They’ve had to say goodbye to their cherished animal companion.
And it hurts you to see them in so much pain. You want to do something, but maybe you feel a little out of your depth, a little helpless, and terrified of saying or doing the wrong thing.
Maybe you’re an animal lover, too —
and already understand how deep these bonds can reach, how intricately a pet’s presence can be woven into a daily routine, a family unit, a life. Maybe you’ve suffered losses yourself. But even if you’re unable to personally relate, being here means you have empathy in spades.
A big part of your loved one’s suffering is grieving a loss that’s not really recognized or understood by our current culture. There isn’t a public funeral, bereavement leave, or an entire community to share the loss of a pet. It’s a disenfranchised grief, and it’s harder to heal when you feel alone.
When you’re on the outside looking in, what can you do? How can you show your loved one that much-needed support while they’re grieving?
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than our greatest intention.”
— Khalil Gibran
Don’t underestimate the value of your presence—it is the highest offering you can give.
You can simply show up—which is exactly what A Touch of Moxy wants to help you do: support you by offering considerate words, ideas, and actions (like sending a card, keepsake box, or care package—we have those!) for navigating these challenging circumstances.
Ultimately, we all want to feel loved. What helps us heal is having someone remind us that we are loved, that our experience matters. Having someone show up—and stay.
It’s a special kind of person who can recognize and sit with someone else’s pain—thank you for being that person.
May you find the support you need so that you can extend it to your loved one freely, and may your loved one find solace in your genuine compassion.
“…Intimacy arises not from any attempt to take the pain away, but from a living through together; not from a working out, but from a being with. Trust and closeness deepen from holding and being held, both emotionally and physically.”
— Mark Nepo
Consider gifting your loved one with a community membership and one of our heart-centered condolence items.
