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My Name Is Henley - My Life and Times as a Rescued Dog |
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Rest in Peace, Henley:
Henley passed over the Rainbow Bridge on March 13th, three many days after celebrating his 12th birthday. To cope with the pain of his loss, his human Mom, Judy, began typing Henley's not-yet-finished narration of his new life on the other side. Judy's introduction to Henley's new book is so touching we want to share it here.
"His loss not only affected our own family and close friends but the thousands of children he visited over the years. Less than 72 hours after Henley’s passing I drove to the two schools where Henley visited most often – Good Intent School in Deptford, New Jersey (where he was their Mascot) and Carson School in Pennsauken where his story was embraced and even shared with children in Manchester, England, via Computer Technology called 'Distance Learning.' The children were heart-broken and at odds with themselves as to how to deal with the pain. Henley was more than a dog to these students, he was a symbol of so many things… a rough beginning in life, starved for food, water, proper shelter, love and affection, wanting someone to care, needing someone to be a strong and steady force in his life… and looking for a safe place to land. Sadly, far too many of the students Henley visited identified with him and where he came from, and so they embraced Henley and his story. They applauded his rise from neglect and abuse to become a great and most appreciated and honored presence wherever he went. He became more than words on paper, more than a character in a book. He became their friend and a powerful example of rising above one’s circumstances. The kids honestly knew that if a dog could make a difference in two-legged and four-legged lives… well then, why couldn’t they? And many did. So, I put together this story (at the time I only had the first 3 chapters finished) but I took those 12 pages to school and the kids sat on the edge of their seats as they heard Henley’s voice, now from another place, and it gave them a sense of closure. It also gave them the understanding that they should celebrate this dog’s life and not just mourn his loss. Yes, the tears and sadness are normal, feeling his loss is also normal. And so is moving forward - to honor him. Immediately plans were made to hold a Spring Celebration Day at both schools, not only for Henley but for all of the students’ animals and the teachers animals and animals everywhere who had taken that trip across The Rainbow Bridge. May this gentle sheepdog’s words also give you comfort, smiles, understanding, and - soon - a reason to celebrate."
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